Pats Promising Prodigy: Jarrett Stidham

Rookie Shines in Preseason

Sam Schiffman '21 and Ashton Worstell '21

With the fourth round (133rd overall) pick in this year’s recent draft, Bill Belichick and the Patriots drafted Jarrett Stidham, a quarterback out of Auburn University. With Tom Brady, arguably the best quarterback to ever play the game and leading the Pats this season, some may wonder why draft another quarterback? The answer lies in both Brady’s most recent contract, as well as Stidham’s numbers at Auburn. 

This offseason Boston’s favorite sports icon signed a two-year, $41 million contract extension, with a player option after this year. This means that Brady has the option to either play two more years or become a free agent. At the age of 42, it may seem like Brady’s time is almost up, but in the past few years, his performance has only gotten better. 

In the past five years, Brady has led the Patriots to four super bowls, winning three. That said, many people question how much longer Brady can stay superior in a game that takes a large toll on one’s body. Sooner or later Brady’s time will come and when that happens Stidham will have to fill the enormous shoes that are left behind in Foxboro. 

At the age of 23, there has been plenty of hype surrounding the 6’3” 215-pound newcomer. Stidham began his college career at Baylor University where he threw for 1,265 yards and 12 touchdowns as a true freshman. Following his freshman season, he was able to attend McLennan Community College, where he did not play football, but instead sat out for a redshirt year, giving him more time to develop in order to keep his academics in check. It was after this year that Stidham announced on Twitter that he would be taking his talents to Auburn University. 

With some of the best statistics as an Auburn quarterback since Heisman winner Cam Newton, Stidham threw for an extensive total of 5,952 yards and 36 touchdowns in two years. Numbers like these piqued the interest of the Patriots organization, prompting them to draft him. 

Stidham had a promising preseason–throwing for 731 yards, four touchdowns, one interception, and a 67% completion percentage. Stidham was able to beat out former backup quarterback Brian Hoyer and earn himself a roster spot. Stidham has a bright future ahead of him, which the Patriots hope will not start until Brady’s era is over. 

Stidham signed a four-year deal worth $3.15 million including a signing bonus of $634,000, a promising first contract for a rookie quarterback. With a four year contract, the Patriots are investing in Stidham to be their star after Brady’s long-lasting career comes to an end.