Patriots Controversy Brewing

There was a trade in the NFL that took place over this past weekend that could have major ramifications that I think many are failing to realize. Jacoby Brissett was sent from New England to Indianapolis in exchange for Phillip Dorsett. I know what you’re thinking, a third-string quarterback for an under-achieving wide receiver, so what? I’ll tell you what. By casting away Brissett, Bill Belichick has subliminally let his plans about what he will do at quarterback be known. Tom Brady is the Patriots quarterback this year, there’s no question about that, but trading away Brissett all but guarantees, in my eyes, that the Patriots will franchise tag Jimmy Garoppolo next season. In other words, Garoppolo will be making more money than Brady in 2018. Now, if you ask me, that’s quite an expensive insurance policy. Could the Pats afford it? Sure, but what about the dynamic in New England’s quarterback room. My point here is this: Yes, Brady is on the top of his game, but by trading away Brissett, I think this might be a cue from Belichick that Garoppolo’s time will be here much sooner than pundits think.