The problem is the Pats are demanding way too much for Garoppolo. You can likely have AJ McCarron for less than NE is asking, who’s a more seasoned QB, one who’s played in more games.
I don’t think that is the case, especially since AJ McCarron has already shown what his ceiling is.
As for what the asking price is, I don’t think a mid-first round pick is too rich. There have been some insane things out there saying this year’s first, next year’s first, etc. and that is just silly. Heh, the root of those may have been the equivalent of dropping some bait to look for crazy and desperate fish.
I think a first and third are a good swap for him.
Bottom line, I don’t believe they intend to trade Garoppolo. I think they are trying to make a run this year, and are keeping him around for insurance and writing him off next year. Same with Butler, though I believe there is a chance Butler could stay with NE. They are going to do what they always do...have him play under duress to “prove” himself (again, poor guy) then let him test free agency. If nobody offers him more than $10-11 million a year, I could see NE re-signing him at that rate, and I think he would consider it. He seems like a reasonably smart guy, though I felt he was getting bad advice from his agent (and others talking in his ear) this year.
Just my 2 cents there.