In a pre-training camp press conference, New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo made it clear that Jacoby Brissett is currently the front-runner for the team's starting quarterback job. Mayo acknowledged the importance of competition but emphasized that Brissett, with his experience and readiness, stands out among the quarterbacks on the roster.

Brissett, who originally joined the Patriots as a third-round draft pick in 2016, started two games in his rookie season when filling in for Tom Brady and Jimmy Garoppolo. However, the team opted to trade him to the Indianapolis Colts the following year.

Since then, Brissett has had a journeyman career, but his return to New England via a one-year free agency deal signifies the team's confidence in his abilities. With 48 career starts and 1,600 pass attempts under his belt, Brissett is the most experienced quarterback on the roster.

Moreover, Brissett shares a history with the Patriots' new offensive coordinator, Alex Van Pelt, as they previously worked together during their time with the Cleveland Browns in 2022. During that season, Brissett started 11 games and showcased his skills, completing 64.0% of his pass attempts for 2,608 yards, 12 touchdowns, and six interceptions.

While Brissett's position as the top quarterback in the current depth chart may not be surprising, Mayo acknowledged that the other quarterbacks, including first-round rookie Drake Maye, Joe Milton, and Bailey Zappe, will have their opportunities to compete for the starting role during the summer.

Mayo expressed optimism about the potential of Maye, stating that if he performs impressively in training camp, he could challenge Brissett's status as the starting quarterback. Competition and the quality of reps will ultimately determine who earns the starting role come Week 1.

As the Patriots prepare for training camp, the focus will be on evaluating the performance of each quarterback, including the promising rookie Maye. The open competition provides an opportunity for these quarterbacks to showcase their skills and potentially change the hierarchy at the position.

Only time will tell whether Brissett, with his experience and familiarity with the Patriots' coaching staff, can maintain his position as the starting quarterback. The competition is set to intensify once the pads are on, and all eyes will be on the quarterback position during the summer training camp.

The New England Patriots are looking for a leader on offense, and the competition for the starting quarterback job is heating up.