There has been plenty of speculation regarding the New England Patriots' plans under center this offseason. It appears they could be targeting New Orleans Saints quarterback Taysom Hill.

According to Mike Freeman of Bleacher Report, the Patriots are reportedly among the frontrunners to land Hill's services in free agency:

“(Sean) Payton told NBC Sports’ Peter King that he believes a team will attempt to sign Hill to a restricted free-agent contract this offseason. If a team does, the Saints can match it. The team to watch is the Patriots, who may make a run at Hill whether Tom Brady returns or not,” Freeman wrote.

The report indicates that Hill's future in New England is not tied to whether or not quarterback Tom Brady stays. It seems he could be their next option to take over once his playing days are officially over.

Hill has established himself as a premier Swiss-army man for this high-powered Saints offense Although he made his bones as a viable pass-catcher and blocker upfront, he managed to kick his play up a notch as a quarterback in the postseason and even appeared to be the superior option to quarterback Drew Brees at times.

While New Orleans may be facing the same conundrum under center regarding their long-terms options, they have been much more open about their desire to keep Brees around. Meanwhile, it still remains to be seen if Brady is set to depart in free agency as well. Regardless, they will have some competition this offseason when it comes to securing Hill.