The New England Patriots quarterback crew right now features four players without the name Tom Brady.
Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer lead the pack, while undrafted J’Mar Smith and Brian Lewerke attempt to make the practice squad — or even the final roster. Smith was a winner at Louisiana Tech and brings value to the team on the ground. Lewerke out of Michigan State had better numbers on the ground and was the Spartans’ three-year starter.
Lewerke’s quarterback coach, Mike Giovando, explains what the Patriots are getting with him.
“I’m not disappointed that he’s a free agent and didn’t get drafted,” Giovando said. “And he’s the same way. He’s happy he’s got a chance. He’s a great quarterback who’s gonna learn his playbook, and I think there are going to be some other things they’re going to see that they like. And when they get him out there and watch him throw it, they’re gonna be like, ‘He can spin it. He can spin it.’
“He can throw it and he can move it around the field. And when he gets in a game, he’s kind of a gamer, man. When he gets in the game and chips are on the line and when he’s healthy and feeling, he’s tough to deal with. He’s a good player, a really good player.”
Giovando elaborated on Lewerke’s longterm ability to remain in the league.
“I don’t see why he couldn’t definitely be around the league for a while,” he continued. “I think he’s got a chance to be around, and I mean for a while. Right now, he’s focused on just making this practice squad. He knows what they brought him in for, and that’s his focus. ‘I’m gonna get on this team and get me a spot and then from there, I’m gonna give them every reason not to get rid of me. I’m gonna make sure they keep me. I’m gonna do everything I can in my power to be here for a while.’ And that’s it. As a free agent, it’s just kind of the way you’ve got to play.”
The Patriots deferred to draft or sign a quarterback in free agency, meaning this group of four will likely be the same group heading into training camp. If Lewerke has the talent Giavando believes he does — the Patriots will catch it.
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