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Matt Flynn, Michael Vick Solid Options For Patriots During Brady’s Suspension

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Michael Vick

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With the announcement that New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady will be suspended for the first four games of the 2015 NFL season, eyes have quickly turned to backup signal callers Jimmy Garoppolo and Garrett Gilbert. Even though the Patriots seem content allowing Garoppolo to make the starts, signing veteran free agents Matt Flynn or Michael Vick would certainly be a wise decision by New England.

The Patriots know what it is like to have no Brady under center. It occurred during the 2008 season when he tore his ACL in Week 1. It also was the last time New England missed the playoffs. Comparing Brady being absent for 15 games to four games is not realistic, but there is no denying the level of concern, especially when considering the Patriots will be playing four teams that are certainly capable of handing them a loss without their superstar playing quarterback.

Garoppolo seems more than capable of leading New England for the first four games. Of course, I could just as easily say that about Gilbert. The point is neither player has ever made an NFL start, although Garoppolo did make an appearance in six games last year in which he completed 70.4 percent of his 27 pass attempts and tossed a touchdown.

Even if the Patriots have already decided Garoppolo is their man, which appears very likely, it would not hurt to add some insurance in Flynn or Vick. At the very least, both veterans will provide quality competition for him to get game-ready.

For six seasons, Flynn held the clipboard for league MVP Aaron Rodgers. He also has proven to be quite capable when thrust into the lineup, although his only true on-field success occurred with the Green Bay Packers. Still, there is no denying the experience and knowledge he brings to the table, which will help Garoppolo if he finds himself in a sticky situation.

Despite Vick’s numbers falling off greatly with the New York Jets last season, there is no ignoring the fact that he showed signs of his former stellar self. While Flynn would be strictly used in a veteran backup role with no consideration of actually playing, Vick is someone who could definitely give New England a boost on the field.

With the possible desire to win the starting job, Flynn and Vick could push Garoppolo to the limit in training camp. That alone would be more beneficial than anything else would.

Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

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