Key Takeaways:
– Quarterback Nathan Rourke has been claimed off waivers by New York Giants following his release from the Patriots.
– Rourke previously shined in the Canadian Football League (CFL) but has yet to make his mark in the NFL.
– Patriotic’s quarterback lineup has been overhauled, with Mac Jones leaving for Jacksonville.
Quarterback Nathan Rourke’s NFL Journey
The NFL career of Nathan Rourke has taken a fresh turn. After being cut on Monday by the New England Patriots, the Canadian quarterback now has a new opportunity with the New York Giants. Despite never securing a constant spot on an active NFL 53-man roster, he had been seen as a valuable asset to the Patriots.
Beginning at the Jags
Rourke began his journey in the 2023 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars. After undergoing foot surgery in January, he stayed with the team throughout training camp. He notably made headlines in a game against the Cowboys where he ruptured through four Cowboys’ defensive lines and culminated with a touchdown pass. His potential, however, was restricted to the practice squad and eventually ended in December when he was cut lose by the Jaguars.
Claimed by the Patriots
The Patriots quickly claimed Rourke off waivers and welcomed him into their practice squad. They renewed his contract in March but decided to part ways with him this week.
The Unstoppable CFL Prodigy
Rourke’s story is intriguing, with many accomplishments bagged at just 25 years of age, including his sterling performance in the Canadian Football League (CFL). His football journey began in his home country, Canada, before he won two Jon Cornish Trophies in NCAA while representing Ohio. With a record of 109 touchdowns in three years, he had proven himself as a dual-threat quarterback.
However, he remained undrafted by the NFL and was instead taken as a second-round pick by the BC Lions in the CFL. As a Lion in 2022, he set a record with a completion rate of a staggering 78.7%. Despite a LISFRANC injury that necessitated foot surgery, he was crowned the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player.
Showing His Mettle Within NFL
Rourke’s acclaimed performance in the CFL didn’t quite translate into immediate success in the NFL, but he has indeed attracted attention. Other than being a quarterback, Rourke also showcased his talent as a receiver while trialing with the New York Giants before moving to CFL.
His 2023 preseason performances were commendable. Of his total attempts, he had successful passings 23 times gaining 348 yards and rushing 39 yards. However, he committed two fumbles.
Revamping of the Patriots’ Quarterback Pool
The Patriots are entering 2024 with a significantly reshuffled quarterback lineup. Last year didn’t go as expected for the Patriots as Mac Jones failed to impress and subsequently moved to Jacksonville. Bailey Zappe, another player who could not make a noteworthy contribution is also expected to exit.
The new formation now comprises of Jacoby Brissett and rookie Drake Maye as the likely starters with Joe Milton expected to be the third pick. This revamped lineup is likely to end the Patriots term for Zappe, marking the end of his two-season stint with the team.