While the New England Patriots already have two quarterbacks that have made multiple starts in the NFL, the team is reportedly investigating the possibility of adding a more proven veteran to the QB room for 2023.
Last season was one to forget for the New England Patriots, especially on the offensive side of the football. The team’s decision to replace an outstanding offensive coordinator with a pair of coaches with limited play-calling experience proved to be disastrous. Not only did it sink their season, but it led to a notable regression for 2021 first-round pick Mac Jones.
During a part of the season when Jones was sidelined due to an injury, rookie Bailey Zappe stepped in, was rock-solid, and even opened the door to a possible QB controversy. While neither are Pro Bowl talents, there is a belief they could lead the offense in 2023, especially with former offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien back in the fold to fix the issue that plagued them in 2022.
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Yet, it seems the team still has some concerns about both, and NFL insider Mike Giardi reported on Thursday that the Patriots “have at least investigated bringing in a veteran QB to add to their young room” to replace Brian Hoyer.
With several proven veterans available in NFL free agency, let’s take a look at three signal-callers the team could possibly bring in for next season.
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Carson Wentz
Over the last few seasons, Carson Wentz has played his way out of being a starting QB in the NFL, which probably now makes him a great option as a veteran backup. If Jones or Zappe were to prove they are not up to being starters in the league, Wentz would be a sound placeholder for the rest of the season.
Plus, a case could be made that he has enough talent left, that being placed with the right team and coordinator could pull more from him than others have over the last three years.
Matt Ryan
Former Atlanta Falcons great Matt Ryan is the most proven name on the market. The soon-to-be 38-year-old is far removed from his prime, but if the team is looking for a very experienced player to help mold Jones and Zappe into reliable professional QBs, then the former league MVP and four-time Pro Bowler would be a great choice. Plus, he has enough ability to still perform competently as a backup in a pinch.
Teddy Bridgewater
If the New England Patriots are looking for a tried and true NFL backup QB, no players are more proven at the role than Teddy Bridgewater. The eight-year veteran who has played for five teams has been both a Pro Bowler and bench player in the NFL. Like Ryan, he would be a smart option in the QB room to help mature the team’s two young signal-callers into legitimate starting QBs in the league.