Even though they are expected to select a quarterback at one point in next week’s draft, there is no guarantee said passer will be the New England Patriots’ starter come the 2021 season. While the team’s projected first-round targets — Justin Fields (Ohio State), Trey Lance (North Dakota State), Mac Jones (Alabama) — are all more than capable, the coaching staff might prefer to go with a more experienced option after all.
There are two of those on the Patriots’ current roster: incumbent starter Cam Newton as well as third-year backup Jarrett Stidham. Both are participating in the team’s voluntary offseason workout program, and will once again compete for the starting job this summer.