Rookie quarterback's path to Patriots couldn't be clearer after free agent signing

The 2024 free-agent frenzy has begun in the NFL. Even though the New England Patriots didn't make a major splash, they did make a significant move on the offensive side of the ball. Other than Mike Onwenu and Antonio Gibson, the Patriots signed quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who spent last season with the Washington Commanders.

Additionally, it's a reunion in Foxboro, as Brissett started his career in New England in 2016. But this signing could have some serious significance.

Brissett has experience in the NFL with multiple teams, so he has been through numerous offensive systems in the NFL. Brissett will most likely serve as both a mentor and as the backup quarterback unless Bailey Zappe or Nathan Rourke impress this summer. But who will be the starting quarterback?

The Patriots hold the third overall pick in next month's draft. With Brissett being added, New England could potentially skip over taking a top quarterback and even trade down. Or, they could take the top wide receiver in this year's class, Marvin Harrison Jr., from Ohio State.

Hypothetically, if the Patriots were to take Harrison with the third overall pick, who and when could they take a quarterback?

Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix will most likely be available in the second round. But, just like they did with Tom Brady, a quarterback could come later. Insert Joe Milton from Tennessee. Milton shined at the scouting combine, showing off his arm strength while improving his draft stock.

If it weren't for Xavier Worthy breaking the 40-yard dash record, some could argue that Milton was the darling player at the combine this year.

But is waiting for Milton worth it? Instead of yes or no, the answer is that it's a bold decision to take Milton later in the draft. What exactly does Milton have to offer? As previously stated, Milton has an arm.

This past season, Milton threw for 2,813 yards with 20 touchdowns and five interceptions. He also rushed for 299 yards and seven touchdowns in 78 rushing attempts. He's a dual threat, the kind of quarterback New England needs to succeed in today's NFL.

If this were to be the case and Milton came to New England, would he be the starter come week one? No. Brissett, who has starting experience, would be the teacher Milton needs to prepare him to be a starter and would take the reps as the starter.

It's a long shot that this will happen, but with Jacoby Brissett returning, never say never to this crazy scenario.

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