Over the past two seasons, Julian Edelman has emerged as the New England Patriots' No. 1 wide receiver thanks to the arm of Tom Brady. However In 2015, he will have to try and be that same player, but with Jimmy Garoppolo throwing him the ball. The Patriots are beginning to prepare for life without Brady, at least for the first four games of the season, which means the wide receivers are seeking out workouts with Garoppolo heading into organized team activities.
Edelman took to YouTube to post a video of him working out with Garoppolo as the two aim to begin building chemistry. According to Patriots' owner Robert Kraft, Brady is appealing the suspension which could knock a game or two off the original ruling, but it seems unlikely he will be under center Week 1 meaning it is the backup's job to keep the team winning until the veteran returns.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Garoppolo will get the start in place of Brady, but the Patriots will likely look at free agency options to add some depth to the position. Michael Vick and Matt Flynn are the top two options available. Vick told the media he is seeking a starting job while Flynn is merely seeking a job in general. There could be the option of a trade with players like Mike Glennon, Colt McCoy or Zach Mettenberger available, but New England would not waste draft picks on a player that might never see the field.
Garoppolo has a real chance to build his stock up in the NFL which could lead to him remaining on the Patriots' roster for the long-term as the eventual heir to the Brady throne or he could turn out to be trade bait like Ryan Mallett was. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on WEEI.com in Boston that teams have called regarding Garoppolo's availability for trades. The Patriots would certainly not make a move anytime soon considering how important the backup is right now.
The Patriots have the players in place to help Garoppolo be successful. LeGarrette Blount helps the run game despite him being suspended for a game. Brandon LaFell and Rob Gronkowski will asset in the receiving game. While Brady could return sooner than expected, it will Garoppolo getting New England those first few wins.