The Patriots' quarterback room is among the most important groups on the current roster, mostly due to the development and rise of Drake Maye after an MVP-caliber second season.
Because they clearly have their franchise player in him, it's crucial they have adequate backups in case disaster strikes, and after Joshua Dobbs' release, only Tommy DeVito remains on the roster.
While he is a solid player to have in that spot, it would be wise for the Patriots to add a more seasoned veteran with the kind of experience that DeVito lacks. That has brought a familiar name into the conversation, with some suggesting that Jimmy Garoppolo return to where his career started in 2014.
Given that he has bounced around the league since the 49ers decided to entrust Trey Lance as their starting quarterback, which was a big mistake, and his familiarity with Josh McDaniels, the Patriots could be on his radar of teams to continue his backup career, and they should consider that, too.
The Patriots need to add a veteran presence to their QB room for the 2026 season
Even before news broke that Dobbs was released on Monday, NESN's Daniel Fisher suggested Garoppolo be considered for the Patriots backup role.
Noting his experience leading the 49ers to the Super Bowl during the 2019 season, on top of understanding McDaniels' playbook and style, Fisher sees Garoppolo as a good fit for what the Patriots need in their next backup, suggesting he be their QB2 with DeVito maintaining the QB3 role for the 2026 season.
"Garoppolo may not be able to start all 17 games anymore, but he could still provide the Patriots with about four to six solid performances and keep them in the playoff hunt.
Another factor is that Garoppolo is familiar with the offensive scheme, working with Josh McDaniels in New England from 2014 to 2017. As a result, he wouldn't have much to learn when adapting to the system."
It seems like a win-win situation for all involved, especially since the Patriots are hoping to continue their path as a contender in their division and the AFC. Garoppolo's understanding of what it takes to accomplish that, gained in his days in New England and San Francisco, makes him invaluable, on top of the knowledge he brings from the future Hall of Fame quarterbacks he has worked with in his career.
Not only did he work with Tom Brady during his days in Foxboro, but he has spent the last two seasons alongside Matthew Stafford with the Rams. The 17-year veteran beat out Maye for the MVP Award last season, and he's very highly regarded in the NFL for his skill.
Garoppolo can bring all of what he's learned to the quarterback room in New England and pass on that knowledge to Maye and DeVito, while also providing some better insurance in case the starter goes down with an injury.
There's a good chance we don't hear much about them pursuing him in free agency, and maybe he'll look to sign with a team that gives him a better chance to play. But there are plenty of reasons for Vrabel and McDaniels to consider Garoppolo seriously, and hopefully, they actually will.