The Cincinnati Bengals cut longtime quarterback Andy Dalton on Thursday, clearing over $17 million in cap space and clearing the way for No. 1 overall pick Joe Burrow to start from Day 1.

However, Dalton might not remain on the market for too long.

Tyler Dragon of the Cincinnati Inquirer reported the Jacksonville Jaguars and New England Patriots are among the teams interested in Dalton.

There is certainly upside for the Patriots in pursuing such a move.

As it stands, the Patriots are likely riding with former fourth-round pick Jarrett Stidham as the projected starting quarterback. But Dalton would make for an interesting insertion in a quarterback competition between himself, Stidham, and Brian Hoyer. Plus, Stidham has the benefit of experience and past success.

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The 32-year-old went 2-11 in 13 starts with the Bengals last season, completing less than 60 percent of his passes while also throwing 14 interceptions. On the whole, his last three seasons have been rather lackluster. Still, he is a two-time Pro Bowler and also has a history of leading fourth-quarter comebacks.

Additionally, the market for quarterbacks has been incredibly lackluster. Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers starter and No. 1 overall pick Jameis Winston signed to be the backup of the New Orleans Saints for just over $1 million. The Carolina Panthers cut 2015 NFL MVP Cam Newton, who remains unsigned.

The Patriots might be able to get Dalton for cheap, which is imperative given their current salary cap situation.

Dalton is not going to be an adequate replacement for Tom Brady. Then again, it seems unlikely Stidham or Hoyer will emerge as stars in New England's system, either.

Signing Dalton seems to be a low-risk move, which is just the sort of transaction Pats head coach Bill Belichick values.