Jarrett Stidham didn’t get to see the field much his rookie season, but his work ethic stuck out to teammates and coaches.
The second-year quarterback is on the verge of taking Tom Brady’s role as the New England Patriots starting quarterback. Bill Belichick deferred to draft or sign a quarterback in free agency, showing confidence in the group he has. Stidham is likely to start and Brian Hoyer will likely be his backup — with undrafted J’Mar Smith and Brian Lewerke fighting for reps.
Patriots running back Rex Burkhead saw Stidham’s potential last season and discussed it on WEEI’s “Ordway, Merloni & Fauria.”
“Very impressed,” Burkhead said, transcribed by WEEI. “Last year even though he didn’t step on the field that much, just seeing his improvement every day on the practice field, in meetings. He’s a very humble guy and he came in eager to work right away and picked it up so quickly. I think that is what struck me, how quickly he picked up the offense from the get-go. He’s out there making calls, making adjustments in audibles like he has been in this system for a while. I’m excited for him. Excited for his opportunity. Whoever is at quarterback — whether it’s him, Hoy (Brian Hoyer), whoever — just ready to follow them.”
Burkhead recorded 302 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns last season — along with 27 catches in 13 games played. He’s been with the Patriots for three seasons and has a thorough understanding of the expectations. He was asked if the Patriots were geared up for a losing season, and had a strong response.
“I don’t think so,” he said. “I think we’re excited for the challenge. We’re going to do whatever we can to put ourselves in good positions. We know we have a lot of work that needs to be done. it’s kind of a new era of Patriots football without Tom. We’re looking forward to it. We’re looking forward to getting better whenever we’re back together. Bringing in the new guys and getting them accustomed to the Patriot Way and how we do things. I think we’re all excited and ready to get to work.”
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