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New England Patriots

New England Patriots

New England Patriots

Why did the Patriots meet with one of the top quarterbacks in this year’s NFL Draft?

By Alex Barth

In addition to the on-field drills, a big part of the NFL combine is player media availability. Among other things, this gives us a chance to see which players are meeting with which teams.

Quarterbacks aren’t scheduled to speak to reporters until Friday morning, but one quarterback’s list of meetings was reported early. That’s Florida QB Anthony Richardson, who is projected to be one of the top quarterbacks in this class and potentially a top 10 overall pick.

According to Jordan Schultz of The Score, at least nine teams have met with Richardson so far at the combine. Included on that list? The New England Patriots.

  • While some fans may hope the Patriots in fact in the market for a premium quarterback this off-season. all signs thus far have suggested the team is still committed to 2021 first-round pick Mac Jones for the 2023 season. If that is indeed the case, why meet with Richardson, who may not even be on the board when the Patriots pick at 14th overall?

    To answer that question, it’s important to keep in mind that the Patriots have historically viewed the combine as “a fact-finding mission.” It’s not necessarily about just finding facts for the upcoming draft either, but can apply years ahead as well.

    The Patriots may not have a need – or a chance for that matter – to draft Richardson this year, but a handful of their 2023 opponents do and will. By initial count, six teams on the Patriots’ upcoming schedule project as potential fits for Richardson, or at least to take a quarterback high. That includes the Indianapolis Colts (who have the 4th overall pick), Las Vegas Raiders (7th), New York Jets (13th), and Washington Commanders (16th). The Patriots may be using the combine as a chance to talk to a future opponent, and learn more about his game.

  • This wouldn’t be the first time the Patriots have done something like this with a quarterback either. Back in 2021, Trevor Lawrence was the consensus first overall pick when the Patriots were selecting 15th overall. Still, the Patriots still sent representatives to his Clemson pro day. The team that did ultimately end up drafting Lawrence, the Jacksonville Jaguars, were on the Patriots schedule that year.

    If the Patriots are considering drafting Richardson, that would be an interesting development. His upside is tremendous, but he is one of the more raw quarterback prospects to be projected in the first round in a few years. In some ways, he’s a polar opposite to Mac Jones. While Jones’ carrying physical trait is his accuracy, accuracy is probably the biggest question about Richardson‘s game. He wins on athleticism and a strong arm, although was inconsistent and struggled with turnovers during his time with the Gators.

    This meeting definitely isn’t something that should be written off all together. But it’s more likely the Patriots are gathering intel on a future opponent, rather than doing draft scouting of their own.

    Richardson is one of just a handful of prospects who have already confirmed meetings with the Patriots. For a full look at the list, check out our pre-draft meeting tracker.

  • Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].

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