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The New England Patriots left no stone unturned in their quarterback search this offseason.
To bring security and a reliable option into the mix, Bill Belichick re-signed Cam Newton on a one-year deal. It gave free agents peace of mind and allowed the Patriots to build up other positions without being overly concerned about their signal-caller. But, the team still was extremely active in search for another quarterback — the Jimmy Garoppolo trade speculation is a perfect example.
Belichick and his staff even spent time scouting Trevor Lawrence and Zach Wilson in the draft this year despite the fact they’re surefire No. 1 and 2 picks. Another option they explored was Washington Football Team’s Alex Smith before he announced his retirement, according to Sports Illustrated’s Greg Bishop.
“The Texans wanted him too, but their quarterback situation remains in flux,” Bishop said. “Smith also heard from the Patriots, Eagles and Colts. But everyone had questions, conditions. He realized that only one path remained to leave football on his terms.”
Smith, 36, won the AP Comeback Player of the Year last season after recovering from a gruesome leg injury. He only played in eight games and had worse numbers than Newton — meaning he probably would’ve came in with a mentor role.
The Patriots obviously didn’t get him and they will likely look for their future quarterback in the draft this year.
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