Patriots rookie quarterback Behren Morton made quite the first impression at the team's rookie minicamp last weekend—turning heads and quieting some doubters in the process.
Selected in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft, Morton arrived in New England as the projected No. 3 quarterback behind Drake Maye and Tommy DeVito. But not everyone was thrilled with the pick. Critics argued the Patriots could have better used that late-round selection on a position of need and simply signed an undrafted free agent quarterback instead. In fact, Morton even landed on a list of the draft's worst picks.
But as Patriots Wire's Sophie Weller reported, the rookie's performance at minicamp had fans and analysts rethinking that label.
"Behren Morton was the lone quarterback at Patriots minicamp on Saturday and had an impressive day, making the most of his extra opportunities," Weller noted. "Morton went 11-of-11 passing during the 11-on-11 period, making some impressive throws in tight windows. While all the players are still learning the playbook, both on offense and defense, his composure and quickness in the pocket certainly stood out."
It's a promising start, especially for a late-round underdog looking to prove he belongs. While rookie minicamp is just the first step—and Morton will need to show he can hold his own against veteran competition—this kind of performance suggests he could make a serious push for a backup role.
For a Patriots team looking to build depth and stability at quarterback, Morton's sharp debut is exactly the kind of early momentum that can turn a "worst draft pick" label into a pleasant surprise.
