5 Patriots on the Chopping Block Next After Jerod Mayo's Firing

3. Jacoby Brissett

Jacoby Brissett's job on the 2024 New England Patriots was clear-cut. The veteran journeyman was expected to hold things down until rookie third overall pick Drake Maye was ready to take over the starting role. He did just that, starting New England's first five contests – including a Week 1 upset road win over the Cincinnati Bengals before Maye made his first career start in Week 6 vs. the Houston Texans.

Brissett had previously crossed paths with 2024 offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt with the Cleveland Browns and had familiarity with the Patriots as a third-round pick by the team in 2016. That familiarity likely helped New England to feel comfortable with him as their bridge to Maye.

Maye played well enough in 2024 for New England to feel comfortable tabbing him as their quarterback of the future, and rookie Joe Milton's play on Sunday likely didn't do Brissett any favors in terms of a potential role backing up Maye.

Milton certainly established that could hold a backup role (assuming that the Patriots don't attempt to capitalize on the sixth-rounder's performance via the trade market). Brissett has stated his confidence that he could still be a starting-caliber quarterback in the NFL. If he is intent on pursuing that goal, New England is not the place to do so.

Ultimately, it will likely be a "thank you for your service" type of situation for Jacoby Brissett as the veteran re-enters free agency. Brissett has already played for five different NFL franchises, a sixth could be in his future soon.