Quarterbacks. 

That's all anyone is talking about now with the New England Patriots. But it seems they aren't just looking at the draft prospects. Instead, they have already inquired about some of the top free-agent quarterbacks on the market. 

And it's a pretty solid list of candidates to bring to Foxborough. 

According to The Athletic's Chad Graff and Jeff Howe, the Patriots have "explored their options on the free-agent market." 

And the top names are Kirk Cousins, Baker Mayfield, Ryan Tannehill, Joe Flacco and Jacoby Brissett.

Yet, Graff and Howe said it perfectly about why the team has some hesitations: "They’d all come with high price tags or fair question marks about their future performance."

While the Patriots are expected to take a quarterback with the No. 3 overall pick, having a veteran in the room will certainly help them develop. 

And there is also a big question mark regarding what the team will do with Mac Jones. 

Which free agent quarterback is most likely to go to New England? 

Out of the entire list above, there are two quarterbacks that would make the most sense for the Patriots. 

Joe Flacco just came off of an impressive redemption season with the Cleveland Browns, having signed with the practice squad in November after starting quarterback Deshaun Watson suffered a season-ending injury. When backup quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson suffered a concussion, Flacco was named the starter and he did so well that it continued throughout the rest of the season. 

And his efforts also helped the Browns clinch a playoff spot, ultimately losing to the Houston Texans in the Wild Card round. Yet, he won NFL Comeback Player of the Year despite only playing for such a short time and he could bring a lot of experience to New England. 

The other option is a former Patriot. 

Jacoby Brissett, who was drafted by the Patriots in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft, spent his rookie season in New England before being traded to the Indianapolis Colts. He has moved around, going to the Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, and most recently the Washington Commanders, but is set to be a free agent. 

And his experience along with his familiarity with the Patriots could make him a solid addition to the team heading into the 2024 season. 

A veteran quarterback in the room could help a rookie develop, so it would certainly be a good move for the Patriots. Especially considering how much money they have this offseason. 

Patriots reportedly know precisely what they are going to do with No. 3 overall pick

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