Patriots Fans Can Rest Easy Because Andy Dalton is No Closer to Being Their QB

New England Patriots supporters were left in agony after it was confirmed that quarterback Tom Brady agreed to sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free agency.

To throw salt into that fresh wound, it was subsequently reported that the Patriots might consider pursuing Cincinnati Bengals signal-caller Andy Dalton via trade. It goes without saying that a Brady-to-Dalton transition would be an unfathomably rough one for the Foxborough faithful.

Luckily for Patriots Nation, Jeff Howe of The Athletic has reported that "something would have to change" for New England to chase any kind of trade for the Red Rifle.

Phew.

Dalton, 32, likely has a few years left being a starting gunslinger, and he'd potentially be a tolerable bridge option for the Patriots if weapons can be placed around him. However, it appears that Bill Belichick and Co. are turning their attention elsewhere, and it really makes you ponder what the team is plotting.

A trade for Cam Newton? A shocking free agency splash on Jameis Winston? What about an unprecedented move to trade up in the draft? There's no way Belichick actually decides to roll with 2019 fourth-round selection Jarrett Stidham, right?

Right??

There are so many variables to consider here, and it really makes for a captivating next couple of weeks of buzz. For now, however, Patriots fans can at least sleep at night knowing that Dalton won't be taking over at quarterback anytime soon.