Cam Newton wasn't the only Patriots quarterback Robert Kraft went to bat for when he spoke to the media Wednesday.
The owner also praised Jarrett Stidham, despite the third-year player not starting a single NFL game.
"I think he’s a great young man and I know he’s eager to compete for an opportunity to play," he said. "One thing I like is that he’s shown great initiative in putting workouts together on his own out in California. I don’t know how public that is and if you follow him on social media, I guess you could see it. But, a bunch of the guys went out there and did that. I’m not sure he’s really been tested.
"I’m really a big fan of his."
Earlier, Kraft noted Stidham hasn't yet received a fair shot in terms of showing what he can do.
While these comments really don't mean much in the grand scheme of things and certainly isn't a signal Stidham will get more playing time this season, it is a good indication of how the 24-year-old is viewed behind the scenes inside the building.
If the Patriots do add another QB this offseason -- either via trade or high in the draft -- it's likely Stidham will to No. 3 on the depth chart, but if nothing major happens he will go into the season behind Newton once again.
