If the New England Patriots stick with their plan to develop him, Jarrett Stidham could become the possible successor to veteran quarterback Tom Brady. In a recent interview, Stidham said he’s aware of the possibility that he might take over someday as Patriots starter. When asked if he’s feeling the pressure about that scenario, Stidham answered: “no, I don’t think I feel any pressure.”

“Like I said, it’s an awesome opportunity to learn from a guy like Tom,” said Stidham, who was taken No. 133 overall by the Patriots. According to Stidham, he wants to soak up many different intangibles from Brady so he can be as good as him one day.

As of now, Stidham is focused on helping the team whatever way he can by taking it one day at a time. “I’m going to work as absolutely hard as I can to make sure I can do whatever it is to help this organization out,” the quarterback added.

Earlier, Auburn head football coach Gus Malzahn predicted that Stidham will emerge as a first-round pick after an impressive sophomore year in 2017, where he tossed for 3,158 yards with 18 touchdowns and six interceptions. However, Stidham’s performance slightly dipped in 2018, affecting his draft stock heading into the 2019 NFL Draft.

Stidham raring to learn from Bill Belichick, Brady

Despite Stidham’s drop to No. 133 with the Patriots, Malzahn said New England got the steal of the 2019 NFL Draft in his former ward.

For Stidham, he’s excited being drafted by the Patriots, saying the team is a great fit for him and his skill set. Stidham said he looks forward to diving deeper into this system and learn from head coach Bill Belichick, offensive coordinator McDaniels, Brady, and backup quarterback Brian Hoyer. “I couldn’t think of a better situation,” Stidham stressed.

Stidham said he has a long way to go to learn the Patriots playbook, but with the help of Brady, Hoyer, and third-string quarterback Danny Etling, he expects to learn a lot of things that could help him play at a high level.

Patriots still looking for a tight end

Despite being armed with 12 picks in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Patriots did not select a tight end that could eventually fill the void left by Rob Gronkowski, who recently announced his retirement.

According to Tyler Sullivan of 247 Sports, the Patriots could fill that need via the free agent market or through a trade. A possible target for the Patriots could be Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph. Rumors swirled that Rudolph might be placed on the trading block after the Vikings selected Alabama tight end Irv Smith Jr. in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Also, Rudolph is entering a contract year, which could force the Vikings to trade him.
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