Patriots: 3 unexpected veteran QBs Pats could target for 2021
By Jerry Trotta
1. Carson Wentz
Carson Wentz could become available via trade in the offseason.
Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz’s fall from grace was one of the most noteworthy storylines of the season, and we’re honestly still trying to wrap our minds around it given how well he performed over the first four years of his career, which included two playoff berths and a near-MVP campaign in 2017.
His disastrous showing in 2020 — he ranked 34th among qualified quarterbacks in both completion percentage (57.4%) and passer rating (72.8), and 33rd in yards per attempt (6.0) — forced Philadelphia’s hand in benching him, and that decision has reportedly fractured his relationship with head coach Doug Pederson beyond repair.
This seemingly unfixable relationship has insiders convinced that the Eagles will move off of Wentz in the offseason, and you can bet that he will have a handful of suitors lined up, assuming Philly agrees to eat some of his bloated contract, which is set to kick in next season.
It’s duly noted that the former Pro Bowler looked broken as can be this year, but his age (28), inarguable upside and aforementioned track record make him an appealing target for teams who already have the necessary pieces — like front office stability and a competent offensive line, among others — in place.
The Patriots clearly fill that bill and their touted coaching staff could be just what the doctor ordered in terms of fixing him. Look no further than what Buffalo did with Josh Allen in one offseason, transforming him from an inaccurate risk-taker into a legitimate MVP candidate.
If Philadelphia makes a reasonable asking price, we would definitely sign off on the Patriots making a move for Wentz, who would clearly benefit from a change of scenery and is motivated to prove the Eagles wrong for giving up on him.
