Patriots Reminisce About QB Jarrett Stidham Before AFC Championship Matchup
The Patriots are reflecting on quarterback Jarrett Stidham as they prepare for the AFC Championship matchup against the Broncos. Stidham, a fourth-round draft pick in 2019, was once seen as a potential successor to Tom Brady. Although he did not meet those lofty expectations, he has turned his career into that of a reliable backup in the NFL.
Stidham’s Journey Leads to AFC Championship
This week, following a victory over the Houston Texans, Stidham will face his former team in a critical playoff game. The stakes are high, as a triumph could lead him to his first Super Bowl appearance. With Denver’s starting quarterback Bo Nix sidelined due to a broken ankle, Stidham has been named the starter.
Former Patriots Teammates Remember Stidham
Only a handful of current Patriots players played alongside Stidham during his time in New England. Six teammates from his 2021 season remain: Michael Onwenu, Anfernee Jennings, Jahlani Tavai, Rhamondre Stevenson, Hunter Henry, and Christian Barmore. Among them, only Onwenu and Jennings were part of the team when Stidham last played for New England in 2020.
- Michael Onwenu: “Stid was good. He saw the field well.”
- Anfernee Jennings: “He was a good teammate. I looked forward to preparing for this game.”
Stidham’s Performance with the Patriots
During his time with the Patriots, Stidham had limited opportunities. He made five game appearances, completing 22 of 44 passes. His total yardage was 256, with two touchdowns and three interceptions. His last game for New England was a loss against Buffalo in Week 16 of the 2020 season.
Injuries and Career Transition
The 2021 season began with Stidham undergoing back surgery, placing him on the physically unable to perform list. He returned to the roster in November but remained a backup, primarily behind Mac Jones and Brian Hoyer. In 2022, he was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders for a 2023 sixth-round draft pick.
After one season in Las Vegas, Stidham signed with the Denver Broncos in 2023. While he has not yet appeared in a game for Denver, this upcoming AFC Championship match marks a chance for him to showcase his skills once more.
Current Team Sentiments
Both Jennings and Onwenu, the longest-tenured players on the Patriots, expressed excitement for the playoffs. Jennings noted the importance of setting goals, stating, “This is just another goal we’re trying to take off the list.” Onwenu echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the joy of playing alongside teammates through this critical moment in the season.
