Breaking News: Patriots Sign Record-Setting QB During NFL Combine
The quarterback situation is a significant concern among New England football fans. Recently, the Patriots made a move regarding their quarterback position by re-signing Nathan Rourke, who was previously their third-stringer.
While this may not be a groundbreaking decision and might go unnoticed amid discussions during the combine, it’s a positive step, especially considering the team’s struggles in finding suitable options behind Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe last season.
They went through several quarterbacks, including Matt Corral, who left abruptly, Malik Cunningham, whose playing time was questioned before he was signed by Baltimore, Will Grier (now with the Chargers), and now Rourke. This move provides some stability to the quarterback situation, although there’s still uncertainty about the future.
Nathan Rourke Set CFL Records
Rourke possesses an intriguing backstory despite his youth at just 25 years old and his lack of experience throwing passes in the NFL. Hailing from Canada, he attended college at Ohio where he earned the Jon Cornish trophy twice, recognizing him as the top Canadian player in NCAA. Demonstrating his skills as a dual-threat quarterback, he amassed an impressive total of 109 touchdowns over three years, with 60 through the air and 49 on the ground.
Despite not being selected by an NFL team in the draft, Rourke was chosen in the second round by the BC Lions of the CFL. He went on to become the starting quarterback for the Lions in 2022 and set a CFL record with an outstanding 78.7% completion rate. Despite missing a significant portion of the season due to a Lisfranc injury that required surgery on his foot, Rourke was honored as the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player.
While his CFL success hasn’t directly translated to the NFL, Rourke has garnered attention across the league as a valuable prospect. Prior to joining the CFL, he even underwent a workout with the New York Giants, showcasing his versatility by trying out as a receiver.
In January, Rourke signed with the Jaguars and participated in three preseason games in 2023, completing 23 of 35 passes for 348 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 39 yards and a touchdown, though he did fumble the ball twice.
Potential Patriots Quarterback Speaks
Regarding potential future quarterbacks for the Patriots, the team currently holds the third pick in the draft. If they don’t pursue signings like Baker Mayfield or Russell Wilson, or trade for Justin Fields, they’re inclined to select a quarterback with that pick.
At the NFL combine this week, quarterbacks expressed admiration for the Patriots. Among the top candidates, including Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Jayden Daniels, Daniels appears to be the most probable choice.
When asked about the prospect of playing for the Patriots, Daniels commented positively, stating, “It would be exciting. Growing up, witnessing Tom Brady’s legacy there, winning six Super Bowls. That’s a high standard to meet. It would be exciting to join them, build on their past success, and help them return to prominence.”