The New England Patriots' decision to release backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs has sparked speculation that the team may be clearing the way for a potential AJ Brown trade.
Dobbs, who served as the backup to starter Drake Maye, appeared in four games and completed 7 of 10 passes for 65 yards without recording a touchdown or interception.
With a $4.75 million cap hit looming for 2026, the Patriots opted to move on from Dobbs, clearing the way for Tommy DeVito to move up as the primary backup behind Maye.
Patriots fans have picked up on the release as an indication that the team may be freeing up the No 11 jersey, the number that AJ Brown has worn throughout his career.
Dobbs has carved out a journeyman career across multiple teams, throwing for 3,346 yards with 17 touchdowns and 15 interceptions, while adding 515 rushing yards and eight scores on the ground.
