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Where Does Nathan Rourke Fit Among Patriots' QBs?

Originally posted on FanNation Patriot Maven
By Jonathan Alfano | Last updated 12/22/23

As the newest member of the New England Patriots, Nathan Rourke is feeling all sorts of emotions as he embarks on this new chapter.

The Patriots claimed Rourke, 25, off the Jacksonville Jaguars' practice squad on Monday, throwing him into the fire to learn a difficult offense in short order.

“It’s been a lot,” Rourke told reporters Thursday. "I think football’s football to a certain extent but just learning the language this far into it has been difficult, but I don’t put it past myself to pick it up. Doing my best, and the guys are supporting me as best as possible."

Even though it's been a big adjustment for Rourke, the former Jaguars quarterback is excited to join a storied organization like the Patriots.

“Yeah, I’m honored,” Rourke said. “It’s a great organization. I’ve got a lot of respect for this team and obviously for Coach Belichick and Coach O’Brien. It’s been pretty cool to be here so far.”

Hailing from Victoria, British Columbia, Rourke began his college career at Fort Scott Community College in Kansas before transferring to Ohio. In three seasons with the Bobcats, he threw for 7,457 yards with 60 touchdowns and 20 interceptions. Despite his productive college career, Rourke went undrafted and instead took his talents to the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League.

After two years up north, Rourke got his first shot at the NFL when he signed with the Jaguars in January. While not appearing in the regular season, he did have a solid showing in the preseason, including a two-touchdown game against the Dallas Cowboys. With the Patriots down to just two quarterbacks after Malik Cunningham's departure, Rourke impressed enough early on to capture their attention.

"Just the depth at the position," Patriots coach Bill Belichick told reporters Wednesday. "So, we only have two quarterbacks on the roster. A guy sprains his ankle, then you're down to putting a receiver or running back or somebody at quarterback. But, he [Rourke] had a productive preseason."

While the Patriots' exact plan for Rourke isn't clear just yet, the young quarterback is just excited to see what the future has in store for him.

"It’s an interesting situation to be in," Rourke said. "I think when I was in Jacksonville, it was pretty clear what the plan was. And I think the plan here is a little bit more unclear. I definitely am appreciative and grateful of whatever stock they put in me. A couple years ago, no teams were giving me any kind of attention. But to be here is great. Kind of part of the job is just to roll with things. So, that’s what I’m trying to do."

This article first appeared on FanNation Patriot Maven and was syndicated with permission.

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