By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff
Much of the talk about the Patriots this offseason has centered around the quarterback position. Most of it has been annoying. Certain members of the media have dedicated themselves to creating the impression of a chasm between Tom Brady and the Patriots, and creating uncertainty about his future with the Patriots. For this season at the very least, Brady will be the quarterback for your New England Patriots.
Tom Brady
One of the all-time greats, and still one of the best, if not THE best quarterback in the NFL. A year removed from his knee injury should result in a move confident, more accurate Brady this season. While some members of the media were openly rooting for, even encouraging him to hold out to start camp, Brady showed up for training camp on time, and is ready to go. Some have questioned his commitment to the team because of his decision to spend most of the offseason back home in California with his family. Others started rumors of a “disconnect” between he and the team. What we know for sure is that he is here, and as long as that is true, the QB position is in good hands for the New England Patriots.
The undrafted free agent from Michigan State was a surprise in last year’s training camp, beating out the competition to win the backup quarterback spot behind Brady. He was the only QB on the roster other than Brady, showing the trust that the coaching staff held in him right from the start. Hoyer played in five games as a rookie, getting some garbage time duty in a four games, and then splitting his playing time in the season finale against the Texans. Hoyer handled himself pretty well in the time he saw the field, not forcing things, and showing some decent ability to move around. He looks to be the top backup for Brady again this season.
The Patriots thought enough of his kid to spent a draft pick on him, selecting him in the seventh round out of Oklahoma State. Robinson had a fine college career and looked good in the Senior Bowl. Some thought he would go higher in the draft, so getting him in the seventh would seem to be a pleasant surprise for the Patriots. He’s a great athlete, able to throw and run with equal skill. His decision-making skills are praised, and appears to be a good prospect to develop behind Brady and Hoyer. Whether that is on the roster or as part of the practice squad remains to be seen, but at first glance, it would seem tough to let him get through waivers to be placed on the practice squad. Do the Patriots carry three quarterbacks this season? That seems to be question.
Summary
This position is not a worry for the Patriots, at least for this season. I believe Brady will get a new contract from the Patriots, perhaps even before the season begins. Hopefully at that time, all the drama, speculation and silliness surrounding his future with the team will be put to rest. Should something happen to Brady injury-wise, Hoyer is developing nicely into at least a stop-gap option and Robinson shows some potential for future development.
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