The Patriots will explore every potential option as it relates to their quarterback situation for 2021, and it appears another veteran will be available.
According to multiple reports, Washington is expected to part ways with Alex Smith in the coming days. The 36-year-old was the AP’s Comeback Player of the Year and he’s said he still wants to play.
In eight games last season, he had a 5-1 record, completing 67% of his passes for 1,582 yards with six touchdowns and eight interceptions. He missed the entire 2019 season following suffering a gruesome leg injury that required close to 20 surgeries.
This will be the first time in his career that Smith is a free agent.
He could potentially be a good option to pair with a rookie selected high in the draft, as he wouldn’t cost very much and that would allow the Patriots to address some other needs, especially weapons on offense.
An obvious drawback is he likely wouldn’t be able to draw many free agents to New England, so if the Patriots are looking for their quarterback to be an attraction for players to join the team, Smith isn’t the answer.
It also means the Patriots are competing with another team in the quarterback market, as Washington is looking to upgrade the position via trade.
As of now, Smith coming to New England seems unlikely, but he’s another name to keep an eye on as free agency nears.
