NFL Insider Suggests Pats Rookie Quarterback Could Get Starting Nod

The notion of Jimmy Garoppolo possibly returning to New England may have been doused.

The Patriots have reportedly signed rookie quarterback Mac Jones to a four-year rookie deal worth $15.6 million, a move that was made because the 22-year-old lived up to expectations.

ESPN’s Field Yates tweeted the deal that also includes a fifth-year team option. It formally ends anxious moments for the 15th overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft.

With most first-draft picks already signed, most were wondering when Jones’ turn would come. That came when the Pats felt the former Alabama standout met their standards during a three-day minicamp last month.

With Jones now signed, the Pats could be taken out of the potential landing spots of Garoppolo.

The name of the 29-year-old has been abuzz with New England suggested as his next destination

But in an exclusive interview with San Francisco 49ers beat reporter Matt Maiocco on Sports For All PH, seeing the two-time Super Bowl champion return to his former team was a bit off.

When he chatted with Filipino journalists Vincent Juico and Brian Yalung, Maiocco stressed that the Pats are unlikely to trade for Garoppolo because of his $25 million contract.

Maiocco added that Cam Newton may or may not be the guy, but a lot is riding on Jones.

“A lot is gonna ride on Mac Jones. If Mac Jones is ready to take over as the starting quarterback for the Patriots, Bill Belichick will make that switch,” Maiocco stated.

However, a slight window could be open for Garoppolo. This would depend on how well Newton performs and if his health holds up.

“Cam Newton had his best for a good many years with Carolina, he was one heck of a quarterback. But you know last year, he was closer to the bottom as far as starting quarterbacks in the NFL. A lot closer to the bottom than he was on the top. So I don’t know if he can get back to the level that he was coz I just don’t think he is healthy. I think he is probably in his final year or two. As a quarterback in the NFL,” Maiocco explained.

For now, seeing Garoppolo move to New England is a long shot. However, that story could be different after this coming NFL season–especially if the veteran quarterback comes out with an outstanding performance.

“Right now, I don’t think there is a real starting job out there for him. New England could be that spot but they are not going to pay him $25 million to come there and be the quarterback,” the reporter said.