New England Patriots undrafted quarterback J’Mar Smith out of Louisiana Tech is one of four quarterbacks on the roster fighting for reps.
Second-year quarterback Jarrett Stidham is the frontrunner for the starting position with Brian Hoyer right behind him — while Smith and undrafted Michigan State-product Brian Lewerke fight for the third spot. Smith was a three-year starter for the Bulldogs and finished with a 25-12 record over that span.
Smith is a 6-foot, 218 pound player who has the capability of putting his head down and getting yards on the ground. He received a $5,000 signing bonus and $30,000 in guaranteed money, according to NESN’s Doug Kyed.
Here are four things to know about Smith.
His father, Kenny, had a brief stint with the Patriots
Kenny Smith was a defensive lineman who played 36 games in the NFL for three different teams — primarily the New Orleans Saints. He didn’t suit up and play any games with the Patriots, but he spent stints during the 2007 and 2008 seasons with the team.
He finished his NFL career with 71 combined tackles and 4.5 sacks.
He was drafted by the San Diego Padres in 2015
Smith was a multi-sport athlete who happened to get drafted by the San Diego Padres in 2015. He played catcher and was drafted in the 24th round — he decided to not sign out of high school. He began playing baseball at Louisiana Tech his freshman year and then turned his full attention to the gridiron.
He turned down offers form Mississippi State and Memphis
Smith was a three-star recruit out of high school and had offers from Mississippi State and Memphis, but he wanted to take his talents to Louisiana Tech. He ended up thriving for the Bulldogs and gradually improving after every season. Smith’s threw for 2,977 yards, 18 touchdowns and five interceptions in the 11 games he played in his final year.
He was suspended his senior year for unknown reasons
Smith missed the final two games of his senior year for undisclosed reasons. He was on par to lead the Bulldogs to a New Year’s Six Bowl Game, but his suspension cut that dream short. He spoke about the incident briefly and acknowledged the fact he let his team down.
“I made a mistake at the end of the year, and I’ve grown from it. I’ve learned from it,” Smith said. “My circle has gotten smaller in trying to trust the people that’s been there for me the whole way.”
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