Patriots Training Camp Storylines

Jimmy Garoppolo’s Development

The Deflategate saga has finally come to a disgusting, yet necessary close after 544 days. At least we think it’s done? Anyways, with Tom Brady choosing to forgo his option at appealing to the Supreme Court, the often proclaimed “heir” to Brady’s throne, Jimmy Garoppolo, will start under center for the first four weeks.

Undoubtedly, all eyes will be on Garoppolo at training camp. News networks and fans will analyze his every move, as the third-year quarterback will be scrutinized for every incompletion and missed read. Garoppolo will be all the talk and, needless to say, there will be overreactions, lots of them.

Garoppolo’s development will be key early in training camp. Even with a juggernaut for the offensive unit, his chemistry and timing with hobbled Julian Edelman and nicked up Danny Amendola will be important to keep the offense from stalling. Obviously, the offense is not as daunting to opponents without Brady at the helm, but Garoppolo and the Patriots’ offense are more than capable of keeping the unit afloat.

If previous reports are true, Garoppolo should be able to step up to the challenge. Sure, no one is expecting the backup to start 4-0, but he should be able to hold ground with at least two wins, especially due to the fact that three of the four games are at Gillette Stadium. Garoppolo finally has his chance, and with the Patriots spending a third-round pick on third-string quarterback Jacoby Brissett this past draft, it would not be surprising to see the Patriots ship Garoppolo away if he plays well. In a quarterback driven league, teams are always foaming at the mouth for young talent. Regardless, Garoppolo’s fate in New England will likely be decided following the first four weeks of the 2016 season.

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