The New England Patriots may have found their successor to quarterback Tom Brady.

Former Auburn quarterback Jarrett Stidham  is making a case for himself in the chase to replace Brady, widely considered the greatest NFL signal-caller ever.

Stidham was impressive as the Patriots thumped the Detroit Lions 31-3 in their preseason opener last week. Stidham threw for over 100 yards and a touchdown pass in three quarters of playing time.

I know it’s only one game and it’s the preseason, but Stidham appeared comfortable in the role. According to the Boston Globe, Stidham has looked impressive during the offseason and training camp.

Stidham didn’t put too much in his performance when asked by Patriots’ media.

“I had a great time,” Stidham said. “This was my first NFL experience getting to play, but it was a lot of fun. I had a lot of fun, a lot of things to improve on. It was a lot of fun playing with these guys. It was a great experience.”

For the most part, Stidham has overplayed his value as a fourth-round pick where the Patriots selected him. I projected Stidham as a fourth-round pick.

Stidham will start the season as the Patriots’ third-stringer behind Brady and Brian Hoyer. It wouldn’t be a stretch where Stidham becomes New England’s primary backup next season if he keeps progressing.

I like Stidham’s attitude on his need to improve. That goes a long way with the Patriots coaches and the players.

“Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has been extremely good in the meeting room. He’s a great teacher. I’m just trying to take as much  from him and Tom Brady, and Brian Hoyer, and Mick Lombardi as much as I can and just really trying to improve every single day.”

New England has a history of drafting quarterbacks at its value. The Patriots selected Jimmy Garoppolo in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft, eventually trading him to San Francisco for the same value. Garoppolo signed a $130 million contract with the 49ers.

The Patriots may hang on to Stidham. If Stidham continues to soar in New England, he will bring the Auburn fan base and that includes the Tiger fans  in Dallas County.