New England Patriots: Is it time to trade up for a franchise quarterback?

The New England Patriots have already made big moves in free agency and they got things started early in the tampering period. After a 7-9 record in 2020 and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2008, Bill Belichick and company were ready to take advantage of all of their cap space.

Their first big signing was former Tennessee Titans tight end Jonnu Smith. Smith signed for a whopping $50 million over four years. His dynamic ability after the catch and ability to stretch the field finally gives the Patriots a weapon over the middle again. They didn’t stop at the position, also bringing in Hunter Henry on a three-year deal worth $37.5 million.

Wide receiver was also a priority, as they brought in two dynamic options in Kendrick Bourne and Nelson Agholor. Neither is a true WR1, but each player can make an impact. Their big signings on the defensive side included Matt Judon and Davon Godchaux. They also brought back offensive lineman Ted Karras on a one-year deal and got Kyle Van Noy back as well.

With all of those signings, plus bringing back Cam Newton for 2021, there’s only one thing left for the Patriots to do.

It’s time for the New England Patriots to make their move for a future franchise quarterback.

Everything is falling into place for the Patriots to make this happen. They are going out spending like crazy, which fits in perfectly with adding a rookie contract at quarterback.

The defense will be getting a few players back from opt-outs, and the group looks strong heading into 2021. They have an intimidating front, and Van Noy’s return will help out the linebacking core. Placing a tender on J.C. Jackson was the right call, as he’s been among the best at corner the past couple of seasons.

Now, by adding athletic, explosive playmakers in the passing game, it’s time to find the quarterback of the future in the 2021 NFL Draft.

There are always those who will suggest waiting on a quarterback until next year, and that the next class could be just as good or better. But, in reality, this could be the most talented group at the top in quite some time. This group has incredible arm talent with the top four, and the Patriots should do what they can to get one of them.

Obviously, Trevor Lawrence is off the table. But, the New England Patriots could have an in with the Cincinnati Bengals at the fifth overall selection. Either Justin Fields or Trey Lance could be available at that selection, with Lance being more likely of the two. Fields has more experience heading into the draft, and Lance could slide a bit in that regard.

A trade with the Bengals could look something like this.

Is that a decent haul to give up? Of course, but it’s worth it to get a quarterback like Lance or Fields. The experience and competition may be a knock for some, but Lance’s arm talent is second to Lawrence in the class. He looks extremely comfortable technically dropping back, and his footwork looks very crisp for a player so young.

Lance does have a bit of an elongated delivery, but the work he did at his pro day showed it shortened a bit. He puts great touch on the football and will be able to take shots down the field with his arm strength. Lance is a power runner and Newton makes for an excellent mentor for him.

As for Fields, he also possesses a great deep ball and despite the odd attacks on his processing, looks comfortable working through progressions in the pocket. He’s got incredible poise and is also a tough runner. He can make plays out of structure and is a big fan of finding his tight ends, something the Patriots have in great supply.

If the New England Patriots want to get back to the top, this is the way to get it done. Trading assets now, with all of the signings they made, works just fine to their advantage, and they will find some later round gems as they always do. Ultimately, swinging for the fences and betting on top-tier potential could end up paying off, especially if they select Fields or Lance.