It would have been nice if the Patriots already had a young quarterback on the practice squad, somewhat familiar with the offense and ready to be elevated to the active roster. But they don’t, so, what’s the next-best thing?
Here is one plausible option: Matt Cassel.
Tom Brady’s former backup played here from 2005 through ’08, the year he subbed for the entire season when Brady was injured. Cassel is currently Tennessee’s backup QB. However, a trade for Cassel seems possible. The Titans have a young quarterback on their practice squad and could, in theory, elevate him to back up starter Marcus Mariota. Cassel’s considerable experience in this Patriots offense would conceivably make it easier for him to learn the playbook on short notice.
Furthermore, Titans GM Jon Robinson served for many years in the Patriots scouting department, and he left of good terms, so, there’s an established relationship between the two sides that makes this move a distinct possibility.
Brian Hoyer, another erstwhile Brady backup, is in a similar situation in Chicago, where the Bears have a young quarterback waiting on their practice squad. Whether or not the Bears would be willing to make a deal is another matter, but perhaps the recent joint training camp sessions between the two squads established some positive lines of communication between New England and Chicago.