After something of a false start, the Patriots activated quarterback Jacoby Brissett from injured reserve Wednesday. To make room, they waived rookie defensive tackle Woodrow Hamilton (Twitter link via Mike Reiss of ESPN.com). Brissett returned to practice at the tail end of November, opening a three-week window during which New England had to place Brissett on the active roster or keep him on IR for the remainder of the season.
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Brissett, of course, started two games for the Patriots while Tom Brady was on suspension and backup Jimmy Garoppolo was injured. While posting a record of 1-1, Brissett completed 28 of 46 passes for more than 300 yards, and while he didn’t throw any touchdowns, he did score on the ground against the Texans in the midst of a 27-0 shutout in Week 3. The 24-year-old Brissett suffered a thumb injury during that contest, however, and while he started in Week 4, he was thereafter placed on IR after undergoing surgery.
Garoppolo has been the subject of recent trade speculation, and given that he’s only signed through the 2017 campaign, it’s certainly fair to wonder if the Patriots will ship him to the highest bidder during the offseason. Such a move would allow Brissett, a third-round pick earlier this year, to become Brady’s understudy as the club’s new backup QB.
Zach Links contributed to this post.
Not really sure I understand this move. Surely the patriots had someone on IR that would actually contribute to the team this season
Considering Brissett’s size and skill set – they may view him as a potential wildcat option or even lining up as a TE. Coach always likes a full bag of tricks, especially at playoff time.
What?
If they are going to trade Jimmy G in the offseason, this may be a move to give Brissett additional exposure before he is the full time backup next year.
That’s exactly what they’re doing. Brisset isn’t playing Tight End or wildcat though. It’s depth at the most important position in football and reps for a young QB
We all know what happened last time they had a Florida Gator playing TE.
I agree with that
The didn’t have anyone else who was eligible, healthy, and worthy of the return designation. The only other player worthy was Freeney but he’s too injured.
Got to trust the pats. Best management and coaching in pro football