The Patriots have their third quarterback.
Following Round 7 of the NFL Draft, Louisiana Tech quarterback J'Mar Smith was reportedly among the Patriots' undrafted free agent signings. While Bill Belichick couldn't confirm on his post-draft video conference, he did say the team has spoken with him, which is a good indication it will happen.
"We talked to J'Mar, no question, yes," he said.
Yes, the Patriots could still add a veteran QB, but as of now it appears they will head into the summer with Jarrett Stidham, Brian Hoyer and Smith.
So, who is Smith?
He was a three-year starter and got better each and year. Last fall, Smith completed 64.3 percent of his passes and threw 18 touchdowns to go along with five interceptions. Aided by a strong arm, he was named the Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year. Not known for his legs, he can make a play or two when needed, as he added 264 yards rushing.
It is worth noting he missed the final two regular-games for an "athletic department policy violation," but returned for the Independence Bowl win over Miami.
"I made a mistake at the end of the year, and I've grown from it. I've learned from it," Smith said to the Shreveport Times before the game. "My circle has gotten smaller in trying to trust the people that's been there for me the whole way.
Smith also excelled on the baseball diamond. As a senior in high school, he was drafted in the 24th round of the 2015 MLB Draft by the Padres as a catcher.
In addition, his dad Kenny played in the NFL, including for the Patriots.
The defensive lineman out of Alabama was selected in the third round of the 2001 draft by the Saints. He played five seasons there before spending a year with the Raiders and then came to New England for the 2007 and 2008 seasons, but struggled to get on the field because of injuries.
Smith is a long-shot to make the roster, but an impressive spring and summer could earn him a spot on the practice squad.
