Zolak & Bertrand: What would you give up for Justin Fields?
On Wednesday’s edition of Zolak & Bertrand, the crew discusses what they’d be willing to give up for the Patriots to land Justin Fields.
I’d do a 3rd-round pick…
Phil Perry: What do you think about the idea of trading for (Justin) Fields, and would you be okay with that if it took a second round pick?
Scott Zolak: Not a two. I’d be interested at 3 or 4. Absolutely. That would sort of be a bridge guy until you find the next quarterback. And I would not do that to have a guy and sit the young quarterback, because I would think this team needs help. The problem with Fieldsis, if he does play well, then you got to make a decision next year and you’re going to pay him $45 million. That’s the risk.
Maybe that’s why you want to hold on to a young quarterback, because you have control of the guy for 4 or 5 years. 5 if you’re a first round, four if you’re second at a low number. I think you get a good player where they’re at right now. Considering how many tackles, how many corners, how many receivers are in this draft. You need that pick to use to get a player for the future, not to go give the Chicago Bears it so they could have Caleb Williams and a number two. No, that that helps the Bears way too much.
Phil Perry: A second round pick is too rich for me. A third round pick now I’m interested, because I’ve got a guy for a year who I think has a real ceiling that has yet to be untapped. We know what he can do with his legs. He’s got a great arm. I think it’s a question of more reps, better coaching, better situation, and you’d have to do a lot in the immediate future to obviously improve what is arguably the worst offensive situation, quote unquote, in football right now. But I think you might be able to get him for a third.
To me, it’s realistic for the Patriots to give up a high third rounder. They’re at the top of the third round obviously, get that guy for a year and your point is a good one. Maybe he plays well and then you have to pay him. I would say it’s a good problem to have.
Scott Zolak: High-end problem.
Phil Perry: That’s what you’re looking for.
Scott Zolak: I would like to have that problem. I just threw it out there because that’s a cautionary thing that potentially could happen.
TAMPA, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 17: Justin Fields #1 of the Chicago Bears runs past Ryan Neal #23 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers while scoring a touchdown during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium on September 17, 2023 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
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Robert Kraft, Jerod Mayo, and Bill Belichick release statements on Matthew Slater's retirement
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft talks with Matthew Slater #18 of the New England Patriots prior to the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on November 18, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
On Tuesday, longtime New England Patriots special teams captain Matthew Slater A message from Matthew Slater. pic.twitter.com/diVYMtAapu
In addition to his on-field accomplishments Slater was a tone-setter off the field for the Patriots’ organization for most of his career. He was a team captain his final 13 seasons with the team, an NFLPA rep, and was involved in many of the team’s off-field initiatives.
READ MORE:
—Matthew Slater announces his retirement
—Patriots release two defensive players, including former captain
—New special teams coordinator credits Patriots as coaching inspiration
Given Slater’s meaning to the organization, it wasn’t surprising to see the tributes that poured in for him following his announcement. Many came in the form of replies on Instagram and other social media outlets, but key members of the organization, past and present, issues full statements.
Owner Robert Kraft and current head coach Jerod Mayo both released statements through the team. Meanwhile, former head coach Bill Belichick released a statement to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Here’s what they had to say…
Robert Kraft
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JANUARY 07: Matthew Slater #18 of the New England Patriots and CEO of the New England Patriots Robert Kraft speak before the game at Gillette Stadium on January 07, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Winslow Townson/Getty Images)
“Matthew Slater wasn’t just a special teams player for the Patriots. He was a special team player who helped us win three Super Bowls and made a positive impact on the many lives he touched, both on and off the field. On the field, his 10 Pro Bowl appearances will likely earn him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame one day alongside his father. Off the field, he will be remembered for so much more. He is a role model, not just for young players, but for everyone. He is a man of integrity and high moral character who is led by his faith and committed to his family. There is no finer person than Matthew Slater. On behalf of the New England Patriots, I want to express our deepest gratitude to Matthew, in partnership with his wife Shahrzad and the entire Slater family, for his remarkable 16-year Patriots career. Matthew’s dedication, leadership and talent have been instrumental to our success, and his impact extends far beyond the field. His character and commitment to our organization, his teammates and the game of football are unparalleled. We are all better for knowing Matthew Slater, and while we will miss his presence on the field, we look forward to celebrating his many future contributions and accomplishments. We know there will be many.”
Jerod Mayo
Dec 11, 2011; Landover, MD, USA; New England Patriots linebacker Jerod Mayo (53) is congratulated by defensive back Matthew Slater 18) and safety James Ihedigbo (44) after intercepting a pass against the Washington Redskins in the fourth quarter at FedEx Field. Credit: James Lang-US PRESSWIRE
“Matthew Slater – my friend, former co-captain, three-time Super Bowl Champion, five-time first-team All-Pro and 10-time Pro-Bowler – is an all-time great. He is an incredible human being and an extraordinary father, husband, son, friend and teammate, to name just a few of the many key roles he plays for countless people who have been fortunate enough to be graced by his presence. Matthew and his lovely family, including his wife, Shahrzad, and beautiful children, Jeremiah, Hannah, Noah and Micah, are led by faith and commitment, example and action.
Matthew and I entered the NFL together in 2008, and I was fortunate to play my entire career with him. Matthew’s leadership, attitude, intelligence and dedication created a professional football career that will most definitely earn him enshrinement in both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Patriots Hall of Fame.
Matthew is a winner in football, but his accomplishments far exceed the field. He is a winner in life. I know that Matthew will continue to make profound impact on so many in his community, both personally and professionally.
Matthew is my dear friend for life. I thank him for the man he is and wish him the very best in all future endeavors. I know he will be great at whatever he chooses to do next.”
Bill Belichick
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – AUGUST 26: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots talks with Matthew Slater #18 during Patriots Training camp at Gillette Stadium on August 26, 2020 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
“Matthew Slater deserves every accolade someone could receive. He is a once in a lifetime person, and the best core special teams player in NFL history. His daily, weekly, and yearly work ethic, paved the way for his unsurpassed performance. Matthew is the finest example of what an intense competitor and human being should be. He has been a great role model for the teams players & coaches) that I have coached. Matthew is exceedingly kind, and supremely loved and respected by all his peers. I am one of many who feel incredibly blessed to be his teammate, coach, and friend.”
