The New England Patriots are reportedly on the verge of making a quarterback trade that could have implications for former B.C. Lions player Nathan Rourke. However, Rourke’s fans might want to temper their excitement, as there are various factors at play. According to multiple league sources, the Patriots are looking to trade Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars, with the Boston Herald reporting that New England is expected to receive a sixth-round draft pick in return. The trade, although widely speculated, cannot be officially confirmed until the new NFL season begins on Wednesday.
Rourke, 25, recently re-signed with the Patriots as an exclusive rights free agent earlier this month. He had been claimed off waivers by New England in December from the Jacksonville Jaguars, who had initially signed him as a free agent in January 2023. This move followed Rourke’s impressive performance with the B.C. Lions in 2022.
Despite being labeled a “journeyman backup” by pundits in the context of the potential Jones trade, Rourke has yet to take a snap in regular-season games for either Jacksonville or New England. However, he did attract attention for a memorable play during an exhibition game for the Jaguars against the Dallas Cowboys. In this highlight-reel moment, Rourke skillfully evaded a series of tacklers before delivering a touchdown pass with a Dallas defender wrapped around his waist.
As the Patriots gear up for the new season after a disappointing 4-13 campaign, speculation abounds regarding their quarterback strategy. Many pundits anticipate that New England will use the No. 3 overall selection in the upcoming NFL Draft on April 25 to secure a new quarterback. The Boston Herald adds to the speculation, suggesting that the Patriots may also pursue a passer in free agency, which kicks off on the same day.
In the midst of these quarterback dynamics, Nathan Rourke’s future with the Patriots remains uncertain. While he has recently inked a new deal with the team, the potential departure of Mac Jones and the Patriots’ rumored interest in drafting a quarterback may influence Rourke’s role within the squad. Only time will tell how these quarterback maneuvers will impact Rourke’s journey in the NFL.
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