The New England Patriots are preparing for life after Tom Brady and they believe Jarrett Stidham is their answer. According to Rich Ohrnberger, a current analyst for Fox Sports and former player for the Patriots, New England sees Stidham as their ‘future'.
I’ve heard it now from A LOT of people close to the Patriots. They really believe in Jarrett Stidham.
Like it or not, Stidham is not a cheap placeholder… he’s the future.
— Rich Ohrnberger (@ohrnberger) May 2, 2020
For nearly two decades, the Patriots were fortunate enough to have Brady as their starting quarterback. But following his decision to sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England is left with Stidham and Brian Hoyer at quarterback.
Over the course of the offseason, many have assumed that the Patriots would sign or trade for one of the notable quarterbacks that are available. Instead, they seem confident that Stidham can be the heir apparent to Brady.
In the 2019 NFL Draft, the Patriots took Stidham with the No. 133 pick out of Auburn. As a rookie, Stidham didn't receive much playing time due to sitting behind Brady.
But when he did get a chance to play, he didn't show much to be excited about. As a matter of fact, he completed just two of his four passes for 14 yards and a pick-six. So depending on how you look at it, he's completed three passes in his career.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding him, Stidham's teammates and even Bill Belichick have expressed confidence in him moving forward. That goes to show why New England decided not to draft any quarterback in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Some would venture to say that having Stidham as their starter in 2020 means they are tanking for a higher draft pick in next year's draft. On the contrary, the Patriots are starting him because they believe he can be their long-term solution under center.
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