Jordan Love isn’t the only prospect rumored to replace Tom Brady.
Justin Herbert, the former Oregon Ducks quarterback, is said to be drawing interest from the Patriots, who currently hold the 23rd overall pick in Thursday’s NFL Draft 2020.
“They love Justin Herbert,” a GM told NBC Sports’ Peter King of New England brass, adding, “But enough to trade up for him?”
At 6-foot-6, 238 pounds, Herbert has the makings of an NFL quarterback physically, although questions about long-term success remain.
He's ranked among the top-five QB prospects
Herbert is considered the third-best quarterback in this year’s draft, according to The Post‘s recent rankings, behind LSU’s Joe Burrow and Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa, respectively.
On his personality and leadership ability — which has been a topic of discussion — Herbert said (via CBS Sports): “I feel comfortable saying that I’m not as introverted as everyone thinks I am. I love to talk. Unfortunately, I talk a little too much sometimes.”
The Patriots aren't alone in the rumored Herbert hunt
Getty Images In addition to the Patriots, it appears Herbert has also grabbed the attention of the Dolphins, who have three-first round picks (5, 18, 26).
“No team has done more work on Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert over the past two years than the Dolphins,” a college football source is said to have relayed to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
Though the Dolphins were said to be infatuated with Tagovailoa, concerns remain about his health. Herbert has also been linked to the Los Angeles Chargers and the Las Vegas Raiders, reportedly setting up a video meeting amid the coronavirus crisis.
Football has long been part of his family history
Ducks do fly together. Herbert’s grandfather, the late Rich Schwab, was a wide receiver at Oregon in the 1960s. His father Mark also played football for the Montana Grizzlies.
He's already mingling with sports royalty
No, Tom Brady hasn’t invited Herbert over to his St. Jetersburg rental just yet, but the 22-year-old quarterback enjoyed a quick photo-op with Derek Jeter himself in Miami this past February. “#Re2pect,” indeed.
