The New England Patriots are heading into a season for the first time in 20 years with uncertainty at the quarterback position.
After the departure of Tom Brady, the idea of Jarrett Stidham becoming the starting quarterback became pretty clear. The Patriots followed up by bringing Brian Hoyer back, and Bill Belichick spoke in a press conference about the open quarterback competition New England would have this offseason. So, the signal-caller in 2020 for the Patriots is still entirely up in the air.
The team has actively shown interest in quarterbacks in this year’s draft, and James Madison University’s Ben DiNucci is the most recent prospect, according to Pro Football Network’s Tony Pauline. DiNucci has had numerous video conference calls with the Patriots.
Here’s what Pauline said.
Ben DiNucci of James Madison is another signal caller who could surprise, this time in the late rounds. The Pittsburgh transfer was not graded by scouts entering the season despite his terrific junior campaign. DiNucci followed that up with a senior year that included 3,441 yards passing and 29 touchdowns as well as a completion percentage of 71 percent.
For some reason, DiNucci was snubbed from all the postseason All-Star events. He has had numerous video conferences with the New England Patriots, Carolina Panthers, and Chicago Bears.
DiNucci redshirted his freshman year at Pittsburgh and lost the starting quarterback battle in his sophomore year, leading to his transfer to James Madison. His incredible senior year was what stood out, after throwing for elite numbers in the air and tacking on 569 rushing yards with seven rushing touchdowns.
The projected late-round pick could turn into a well-worth it project if the Patriots don’t see a future with Stidham.
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