This offseason has been difficult for NFL players trying to prepare for the 2020 season. The country and league put restrictions on what can be done during the COVID-19 pandemic — so, players and coaches haven’t been able to visit their stadiums.
Jarrett Stidham has taken on his leadership role by starting small throwing sessions with some of his teammates, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss.
“On a recent day in Massachusetts, Stidham and a group of six teammates gathered at a private football field for their work, which focused intently on following social distancing guidelines,” Reiss stated. “Stidham has been a catalyst for the throwing sessions, sources said, which reflects a show of leadership as the Patriots transition from 19 seasons with Brady as the starting quarterback.”
According to Reiss, the other Patriots who joined these throwing sessions included Brian Hoyer, Julian Edelman, Damiere Byrd, Gunner Olszewski and more.
Stidham may be competing with Hoyer for the starting job, but they both seem to be doing what’s best for the team. Getting on the same page with a top weapon like Edelman and depth receivers like Byrd and Olszewski will be imperative if the Patriots want to compete for a playoff spot in their first year without Tom Brady.
The Patriots clearly have two quarterbacks who are on the same page and willing to sacrifice for the team. Two more quarterbacks will add to the competition in undrafted free agents J’Mar Smith and Brian Lewerke. This should bring the best out of Hoyer and Stidham who are obviously seen as the favorites.
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