One season without a franchise quarterback might be enough for Bill Belichick.
According to a report by Athletic’s Jeff Howe, the Patriots “Scouting on a massive scale “Top Quarterback in the 2021 NFL Draft.
Howe wrote, “The Patriots are loudly presenting the top five quarterbacks in the class.” According to several sources, “the board will almost certainly require trade to include some.” That group includes Trevor Lawrence of Clemson, Zak Wilson of BYU, Trey Lance of North Dakota State, Justin Fields of Ohio State and Mac Jones of Alabama. “
The Patriots have the No. 15 pick in the draft and it is unlikely that the top four quarterbacks will be available in the middle of the first round. Jones, who led the Crimson Tide to just one national title and had an impressive Senior Bowl week, has been taking a lot of bounce lately. The Patriots may also need to trade in order to select them in the first round.
In his first season in two decades without Tom Brady, the Patriots went 7-9 and were plagued by Cam Newton’s inconsistency. Bellich and the rest of the Patriots Brass did not prioritize the quarterback after Brady departed after Budkener’s final attack.
The Patriots signed Newton to a one-year, incentive-laden deal in late June. Jarrett Steadham, who was drafted by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2019 draft, did not impress in his brief opportunities and did not turn into his future quarterback.
Although Bellich and Newton have spoken of each other flamboyantly, it seems unlikely that he will return to the starting role for New England.
Although Belichick is generally loath to trade in the draft, it is the disappointment of last season – and Brady’s move to the Buccaneers to the Super Bowl – could shift the franchise’s priorities.
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