New England Patriots could offer NFL Draft bust a chance after ‘starting quarterback’ boast backfires

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Once considered the future of the Tennessee Titans franchise, quarterback Will Levis is on the hunt for a new team, and perhaps a career reset.The 33rd overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, Levis has been waived by the Titans.Levis has been cut by the Titans ahead of the 2026 seasonGettyInitially named the third-string QB, he went on to become a starter in Nashville, but failed to make a true impression.A 3-14 record in 2024 saw the team land the first pick of the 2025 draft, where they selected Cam Ward, who has recently clapped back at criticism of his play.He’s now the future of the Titans franchise, and his growth as quarterback is the focus for Robert Saleh this season.That means Levis is out, but he could be handed a second chance by a Super Bowl contender.NFL Weekly Newsletter - SIGN UP!talkSPORT is your home for NFL in the UK as we launch our biggest year of coverage yet!2026 promises to be an epic year for NFL on talkSPORT – and we want you to join us for the ride.MORE INFO & SIGN-UP HERE!This season will be our biggest ever with live commentary of 90+ games, including behind-the-scenes access to international games and all three London fixtures, plus bumper coverage of Super Bowl 61 at SoFi Stadium.Exclusive interviews, hard-hitting opinion, latest front-office drama and top breaking news – all delivered straight to your inbox each week.New England Patriots could offer draft bust a chance at QBOnce Tennessee’s decision was announced Sunday, David Suggs of The Sporting News named the New England Patriots as a potential landing spot for Levis.Mike Vrabel’s team were beaten in Super Bowl LX back in February, and while Drake Maye is the undoubted starter, Levis could challenge for the backup spot.He has a prior relationship with the Pats head coach, having played under him as a rookie for the Titans.“With Drake Maye at the helm, New England is more than satisfied with its quarterback situation,” Suggs wrote.“Things are a little murkier behind him; Tommy DeVito has failed to impress as a backup, while it’s no certainty that seventh-round pick Behren Morton makes the team.“Levis is familiar with head coach Mike Vrabel’s system, having played for him as a rookie. Levis’ time under Vrabel’s tutelage was far from smooth — he drew Vrabel’s ire for his willingness to put himself in danger in the hopes of accumulating a few extra yards.Levis proclaimed earlier this month that he deserved a starting spot in the NFLGetty“Vrabel was sacked after Levis’ maiden year. The then-24-year-old was fairly underwhelming across his nine starts, amassing 1.808 yards and eight touchdowns to four interceptions.“While Levis’ career has stalled a bit in the years since he made his debut, perhaps his old taskmaster could help him get back on track in a reduced role in Foxborough.”Will Levis released as ‘starting quarterback claim’ backfiresLevis, most likely, will have plenty of interest from other teams around the NFL.The Jacksonville Jaguars, Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Chargers were also named by Suggs as potential destinations.But wherever he ends up, Levis will almost certainly be playing a backup role. And his tough break comes weeks after he caused a stir by suggesting he was worthy of a starting spot in the NFL.““There are not 32 quarterbacks in this league better than me,” he said in early August. I know that for sure.Ex-Titans HC Vrabel could offer Levis a fresh start in New EnglandGetty“When I get the opportunities, I know I’m gonna make the most of it and I’m going to shine.”In reality, though, Levis finds himself with limited opportunities heading into 2026. He’ll now hope to get back onto a roster for Week 1, and work his way back from there.