Three Reasons Why Patriots Should Trade For 24-Year Old Star Player
“With the third pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Patriots have a prime opportunity to secure their future franchise quarterback.
However, there’s a possibility that the new leadership isn’t fully convinced by the top quarterbacks available in this year’s draft class. This uncertainty might lead the Patriots to explore alternative options should they opt to part ways with Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe.
One potential solution could involve acquiring Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields.
The Bears hold the first and ninth overall picks in the upcoming draft, granting them flexibility to address various positions, including quarterback. If they select one of the top three quarterbacks, they could potentially trade Fields to bolster other areas of their roster.
Should the Patriots pursue a trade for Fields, there are three compelling reasons why he could seamlessly integrate into New England’s system:”
1.) Development Potential
In Chicago, similar to Jones’ experience in New England, Fields hasn’t been provided with the necessary support for success. The offensive line, receiving options, and coaching setup have been problematic, mirroring the challenges faced in New England. However, Fields exhibits potential for growth compared to Jones.
During his initial two seasons, Fields displayed improvement, evident in his reduced instances of missing open receivers and a heightened level of patience in the pocket. His completion percentage rose from 58.9% in his rookie year to 61.4% in 2023. Last season, he attempted 370 passes, completing 227 for 2,562 yards and 16 touchdowns. Additionally, he contributed 657 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns across 13 games.
2.) Affordable For A Quarterback
Fields is embarking on the fourth year of his rookie deal, carrying a cap impact of slightly above $6 million. Considering the Patriots boast over $103 million in available cap space, they have the opportunity to allocate resources towards complementing Fields with free-agent talent while potentially saving at the quarterback position.
With still two years left on his original contract, the Patriots would have a span of two seasons to assess if Fields fits as the suitable quarterback without jeopardizing their cap stability.
3.) Allows Picks To Be Used On Supporting Talent
The Patriots need to enhance their quarterback situation, but that doesn’t necessarily entail hastily thrusting a rookie into a starting role for the 2024 season. Should New England opt to acquire Fields through a trade, they could utilize their No. 3 pick to secure standout wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. from Ohio State, forming a potent combination with Fields.
By refraining from selecting a quarterback, the Patriots would also have the opportunity to draft an offensive tackle instead of resorting to free agency to fill the position.
The Bears failed to provide Fields with top-tier talent around him. If Fields were to join the Patriots and be surrounded by quality weapons, the change of environment could prove beneficial for both Fields and the respective teams involved.