It seems like the conventional wisdom now, after Brady's new contract is completed, is that Mallett will be dealt. Let's work with that assumption and ask where are some possible places he could end up, and what could the Pats reasonably hope for in return?
We have been thinking Mallett for a pick. But with the new cap space available, what if BB went in the opposite direction:
Mallett + a 2014 3rd rounder to Minnesota for Harvin
Minnesota needs a good passing QB in the worst way. Harvin is leaving the team one way or another, so they might as well get something for him on the way out. Mallett is a much better thrower of the football than Ponder is, though none of us really know if he can be a better NFL quarterback. The 3rd round pick is a nice little bonus for the Vikings.
I don't see Minnesota doing this if they were going to retain Harvin, but since it appears there's less than a 1% chance of that happening, they might figure that acquiring Mallett is kind of like getting Matt Barkley even though they aren't remotely in the draft position to pick him.
For the Patriots, the deal makes sense on a bunch of levels, even if they aren't sure about signing him to an extension. Harvin is essentially Tavon Austin with NFL experience and a more muscular frame. Elite speed, good hands, can come out of the backfield, line up in the slot, or outside, and is a dynamic kick returner.
That's one idea. What are some other possible spots where Mallett could be dealt?
We have been thinking Mallett for a pick. But with the new cap space available, what if BB went in the opposite direction:
Mallett + a 2014 3rd rounder to Minnesota for Harvin
Minnesota needs a good passing QB in the worst way. Harvin is leaving the team one way or another, so they might as well get something for him on the way out. Mallett is a much better thrower of the football than Ponder is, though none of us really know if he can be a better NFL quarterback. The 3rd round pick is a nice little bonus for the Vikings.
I don't see Minnesota doing this if they were going to retain Harvin, but since it appears there's less than a 1% chance of that happening, they might figure that acquiring Mallett is kind of like getting Matt Barkley even though they aren't remotely in the draft position to pick him.
For the Patriots, the deal makes sense on a bunch of levels, even if they aren't sure about signing him to an extension. Harvin is essentially Tavon Austin with NFL experience and a more muscular frame. Elite speed, good hands, can come out of the backfield, line up in the slot, or outside, and is a dynamic kick returner.
That's one idea. What are some other possible spots where Mallett could be dealt?