In the spectrum of potential scenarios for the Patriots’ offseason, this one would certainly make waves. It’s widely acknowledged that the team is in dire need of a quarterback, and it’s no secret that they possess significant cap space, sitting fourth in the NFL with a projected $66 million. With this financial leverage, the Patriots could pursue a veteran free agent quarterback aggressively. One possibility gaining traction involves Buccaneers standout Baker Mayfield.
In a segment of an ESPN column discussing the upcoming offseason, insider Jeremy Fowler entertained the idea of Mayfield finding his way to New England when asked about a move he’d like to see. He suggested, “The Patriots pull off a surprise move by securing QB Baker Mayfield.”
While the Buccaneers are seen as the front-runners to retain Mayfield, who has garnered attention as a prized free agent following an impressive season with the Bucs, the unpredictability of free agency leaves room for surprises. Moreover, the Patriots’ newly established leadership, including key figures like Eliot Wolf and Alonzo Highsmith, were part of the Cleveland organization that drafted Mayfield first overall in 2018, indicating a preexisting belief in his potential.
Breakout Year for Baker Mayfield
Mayfield undoubtedly emerged as a standout narrative in the NFL last season, marking a remarkable comeback following a challenging 2022 campaign where he was traded away by the Browns, finding himself with the Panthers and Rams. In March, he secured a contract structured around proving himself, and he certainly delivered, ranking ninth in the NFL for passing yards with 4,044 and placing 12th in quarterback rating at 96.0. With 28 touchdowns and just 10 interceptions, he steered the Buccaneers to victory in the NFC South championship and secured a playoff win against the Eagles.
As noted by Fowler, the Buccaneers are heavily favored to retain Mayfield, who has expressed his desire to continue with Tampa Bay, valuing the stability it offers. However, retaining him won’t come without a significant cost, considering other financial commitments the team faces.
According to Pro Football Focus, Mayfield holds the third spot among free-agent quarterbacks, with a projected three-year deal valued at $75 million. Spotrac estimates a four-year contract worth $108 million, while The 33rd Team foresees a deal comparable to Geno Smith’s, spanning three years and totaling $75 million for Mayfield.
Patriots Offseason Offers Plenty of Paths to a QB
Certainly, predicting the Patriots’ quarterback strategy for the upcoming offseason presents a challenge. As indicated by Fowler, the team might opt for drafting a quarterback with the third overall pick, but the necessity for a seasoned veteran remains uncertain. Alternatively, if they view Mayfield as a viable long-term solution, they could target Marvin Harrison Jr. from Ohio State or explore trading down for additional assets.
Another possibility is engaging in trade discussions with the Bears, potentially acquiring the first overall pick to select Caleb Williams or pursuing Justin Fields. On the other hand, they could bypass trade scenarios and rely on their draft position to secure one of the available quarterbacks like Williams, Drake Maye, or Jayden Daniels, which appears to be the most probable outcome.
In terms of free agency, the Patriots could pursue a high-profile option like Kirk Cousins for a significant impact, or consider a more modest option such as Russell Wilson, who might come at a lower cost. Various avenues exist, including the option of attempting to acquire Mayfield from Tampa, although it ranks lower on their list of possibilities.
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