New England Patriots quarterback options for the post-Brady era
2019 NFL Draft Prospects
Jacob Eason, Georgia
Projected Selection: Round 1-3
Jacob Eason has the potential to be the top quarterback in the 2019 NFL Draft. As a freshman in 2016, he threw for 2,430 yards and 16 touchdowns, but an injury in 2017 forced him to the sidelines. True freshman Jake Fromm took over as the starter and he has gotten the Bulldogs to the College Football Playoff. Therefore, Eason will either have to earn his job back or make a transfer decision.
That could force Eason to become a 2020 NFL Draft prospect, but that remains to be seen. He has a strong arm and the size to make it as an NFL QB, but he will need the chance to play to prove himself to NFL scouts.
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Nick Fitzgerald, Mississippi State
Projected Selection: Round 2-3
In 2017, Mississippi State’s Nick Fitzgerald threw 15 touchdown passes but also had 11 interceptions. He should be returning for his senior season and if he can improve his accuracy and decision making, Fitzgerald has the potential to develop into a solid NFL prospect.
Jake Bentley, South Carolina
Projected Selection: Round 3-5
South Carolina’s Jake Bentley was just a sophomore in 2017 and he was solid with 16 touchdowns thrown. Like many young QBs, he will have to improve his accuracy and decision making before making the jump to the NFL.
Brett Rypien, Boise State
Projected Selection: Round 6-FA
Junior Brett Rypien should be back for his senior season with the Boise State Broncos. He threw for 16 touchdowns and just 6 interceptions in 2017, and he looks like he has a ton of potential going forward. He may be a late-round steal in the long run.
Next: A quick look at Patriots playoff opponents
The Patriots have options, and some under-the-radar targets could present themselves before these NFL Drafts, but the prospects on this list present some great targets for New England. They won’t find the next Tom Brady, but a solid starting QB is certainly attainable in 2018 or 2019. What do you think of these options for New England? Is there anyone else that I should take a look at ahead of the draft? Let me know all of your thoughts on Twitter @CandCFansided.