Getty Some in the media suggest the Patriots take a look at Dwayne Haskins.
The New England Patriots are looking to add at least one quarterback heading into the 2021 season. The quarterback(s) will come from the draft, a free agent pick-up or perhaps even a trade, but it seems unlikely we’ll see Cam Newton, Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer back with the team next season.
There are rumors about the Patriots being interested in a number of veteran quarterbacks, and at least three rookies’ names have been mentioned in conjunction with New England. One new name added to the list of potential additions is now-former Washington Football Team first-round pick Dwayne Haskins.
The 24-year-old was released by the team earlier this week. He cleared waivers and some members of the media are already suggesting the Patriots take a look at Haskins with the possibility of signing him to the practice squad.
The Providence Journal’s Mark Daniels said he wouldn’t mind seeing the Patriots add Haskins to the practice squad or sign him to a futures deal.
I wouldn’t hate the Patriots adding him to the practice squad and signing him to a futures deal https://t.co/AVW0ZyRitx
— Mark Daniels (@MarkDanielsPJ) December 29, 2020
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What Are the Potential Drawbacks?
Haskins was released by Washington after running afoul of the league and team’s safety protocols associated with COVID-19. Washington head coach Ron Rivera talked about informing Haskins of his decision to release the former No. 15 overall pick.
“I told him that I believe it benefits both parties that we go our separate ways. We want to thank Dwayne for his contributions these last two seasons and wish him well moving forward,” ESPN reported.
Haskins didn’t cry foul. He accepted responsibility for his actions and vowed to mature and improve his decision making in a post on his private Twitter account.
“I take full responsibility for not meeting the standards of an NFL QB & will become a better man & player because of this experience,” ESPN reported.
The issue that broke protocol involved partying at a strip club without wearing a mask. It was just the latest misstep in a string for Haskins, as NBC Sports reported, and was the last straw for him with Washington.
When a player has this kind of past, it is always tough for a team to choose to take a chance on him. However, a practice squad spot or futures contract would provide a good deal of protection for the Patriots and they could sign him to a low-risk, potentially high-reward deal.
What Does Haskins Have to Offer?
Haskins has the size and physical skills to be a player in the NFL. Unfortunately, he has yet to apply himself to his craft in a way that would result in success or noteworthy improvement through his first two seasons.
Haskins has a QB record of 3-10. He’s completed 60% of his passes for 2,804 yards, 12 TDs and 14 INTs. That’s hardly a stat line that will wow anyone. However, when you consider the Patriots need, at the very least, depth and talent at the quarterback position, it’s easy to see why someone might want to take a look at Haskins to see if there is anything that can be salvaged of his talent. After all, he is still just 23 years old.
Will the Patriots take a chance on him? You never know. Multiple teams are interested in signing Haskins, according to NFL writer Kevin Patra. As crazy as it sounds, Haskins, who recently fired his agent, will likely get a chance to choose his next destination.