Once a “potential” Brady replacement, Patriots give up on Stidham



The Josh Stidham era is coming to an unceremonious ending in Foxboro.

Stidham, a fourth round pick once perceived by some analysts as a potential heir to Tom Brady, was shipped off Thursday in a late-round pick swap.

In doing so, the Raiders are getting the quarterback for a pick two rounds lower – a sixth rounder, while receiving a 7th rounder in return,

Despite the Patriots putting Stidham behind center for just 48 attempts, their clearly wasn’t a strong market for him. And the Patriots moved on to their next developmental prospect last month, drafting Western Kentucky QB Bradley Zappe.

The Raiders, meanwhile get a prospect who had a fourth round grade just a few years ago and a reputation for being able to make smart, accurate throws when he is protected.

Stidham also is another QB with a little bit of in-game experience to compete for a backup spot behind newly extended starter Derek Carr.