The New England Patriots selected quarterback Behren Morton with the 234th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which has been criticized as one of the worst picks. Analysts argue that the choice lacks physical upside compared to other available options.
Key points
New England Patriots drafted Behren Morton in 2026 NFL Draft
Morton selected with the 234th pick in the seventh round
Criticism highlights lack of physical upside compared to other options
New England PatriotsBehren MortonDrake MayeTommy DeVito
The New England Patriots addressed multiple needs on both sides of the football in the 2026 NFL Draft. One of those areas was a No. 3 quarterback to play behind Drake Maye and Tommy DeVito. So with the 234th pick in the seventh round of the draft, the Patriots selected former Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton.
It's a move that came with mixed opinions. Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski even went as far as including it in his list of the worst picks in the draft.
Sobleski wrote:
"The New England Patriots spent a seventh-round pick on a backup quarterback option with little physical upside when other, better possibilities remained on the board."
While wanting the Patriots to take another player is understandable, this selection feels warranted. The Patriots needed additional depth in their quarterback room. DeVito's ability to be a serviceable backup is obvious given his experience. He has served as a backup and started in NFL games.
However, the Patriots needed a No. 3 option to develop behind the scenes. They obviously saw something that they liked in Morton's game that made them want to spend a draft pick on him. And to be fair, he has shown promise in his collegiate career. His best year came in 2024 when he threw for 3,335 yards, 27 touchdowns and eight interceptions.
Those numbers dipped last season with Morton racking up 2,780 passing yards, 22 touchdowns and six interceptions. The hope is for Morton to grow and develop behind two veteran quarterbacks, while under the watchful eye of Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
At the end of the day, Morton is a talented quarterback with upside. The Patriots didn’t necessarily waste a selection. They had a need, and they didn't shy away from addressing it.
Q&A
Why was Behren Morton considered one of the worst picks in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Behren Morton was criticized for being a backup quarterback option with limited physical upside, especially when better players were still available.
Who are the quarterbacks ahead of Behren Morton on the Patriots roster?
Behren Morton will play behind Drake Maye and Tommy DeVito on the New England Patriots roster.
What round was Behren Morton selected in during the 2026 NFL Draft?
Behren Morton was selected in the seventh round as the 234th pick of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Related Articles
Golf
Cink opens 2-shot lead in Regions Tradition in bid for second straight senior major title
Stewart Cink shot a second consecutive 7-under 65 to take a two-stroke lead at the Regions Tradition, aiming for his second straight senior major title. He previously won the Senior PGA Championship two weeks ago.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
MLB·Recap
Miguel Rojas Beat Mental Demons With Help of Kiké Hernandez
Miguel Rojas overcame personal struggles with support from Kiké Hernandez, culminating in a pivotal ninth-inning home run in Game 7 of the 2025 World Series. Rojas had previously doubted his future with the Dodgers after teammates were designated for assignment.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports·Feature
Fighting back tears, Brad Galli signs off WXYZ Channel 7 for last time
Emotional farewell: Brad Galli signs off from WXYZ Channel 7 after 15 years.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Tennis·Feature
What a Coco Gauff, Caty McNally “McCoco” doubles reunion at Italian Open means
Coco Gauff and Caty McNally, the 'McCoco' duo, reunite for doubles at the Italian Open!
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports
Iranian officials to travel to FIFA HQ for World Cup talks ahead of deadline
Yahoo Sports·
Sports
Albert Pujols & Yadi Molina Going into St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame
Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina are set to enter the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame!