The New England Patriots are reportedly re-signing backup quarterback Nathan Rourke to a new deal, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Rourke, who was claimed off waivers by the Patriots last December, never saw the field in New England, but he was promoted ahead of Mac Jones as the primary backup to Bailey Zappe in the final week of the season.
At the very least, the former Canadian Football League standout will have an opportunity to compete for a roster spot in New England.
Keep in mind, the Patriots reportedly already have a three-step plan in place, which includes drafting a rookie quarterback with the No. 3 overall pick of the 2024 NFL draft, signing a veteran quarterback and moving on from Jones.
The #Patriots are re-signing former CFL standout QB Nathan Rourke, per source.
New England claimed Rourke off waivers from Jacksonville in December. New regime, but Rourke is returning. pic.twitter.com/tg3RdmcTOL
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 1, 2024
Rourke obviously did enough behind the scenes to impress the right people. We’ll see if he can keep the momentum going in his offseason preparation for a Patriots’ quarterbacks room that’s about to get significantly crowded.
