ey Points:

• Nathan Rourke Claimed by Patriots: New England Patriots acquire quarterback Nathan Rourke after waivers from Jacksonville Jaguars.
• Rourke’s Impressive Career: Former CFL standout and Ohio University alumnus, Rourke showcased strong preseason performance with Jaguars.
• Patriots Quarterback Situation: With current team struggles, Rourke joins as the eighth quarterback for the Patriots this season.

Former 25-year-old BC Lions QB Nathan Rourke has recently made a significant move in his professional football career in the US by joining the New England Patriots. This development comes after the Patriots lost quarterbacks Malik Cunningham to the Ravens and Will Grier to the Chargers. Rourke, claimed off waivers from the Jacksonville Jaguars, brings a new dynamic to the Patriots’ quarterback lineup.

The #Patriots claimed QB Nathan Rourke off waivers from the #Jaguars, per source.

So after losing Will Grier to the #Chargers, New England's QB depth chart is full again with Rourke, the onetime CFL standout.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 18, 2023

Rourke’s journey in professional football is notable. After an impressive collegiate career at Ohio University, where he threw 60 touchdowns and only 20 interceptions from 2017 to 2019, Rourke entered the Canadian Football League (CFL). His time with the BC Lions was remarkable, throwing 25 touchdowns against 10 interceptions in the last season and rushing for 304 yards with seven touchdowns. His performance earned him the Most Outstanding Canadian award in 2022.

The Patriots, currently facing challenges in their quarterback department, have seen Rourke as a valuable addition. The team, ranking 25th in touchdown passes and 29th in passer rating this season, has shuffled through several quarterbacks, including Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe. Rourke becomes the eighth quarterback to join the Patriots roster this year, alongside Trace McSorley, Matt Corral, and Ian Book.

Rourke’s NFL journey began with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he signed in January. Despite not playing in a regular-season NFL game, his preseason performance was impressive, completing 23 of his 35 passes for 348 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions. His ability to perform under pressure was evident as he was waived and re-signed multiple times by the Jaguars.

The New England Patriots, with a current record of 3-11 and out of postseason contention, are looking towards Rourke to bring a fresh perspective to their quarterback lineup. The team has three regular season games remaining, and Rourke is expected to be active for these games as per NFL waiver rules.

As the Patriots navigate the rest of the season, all eyes will be on Nathan Rourke. His diverse experience in the CFL and his resilience in the NFL preseason make him a quarterback to watch. The Patriots and their fans are hopeful that Rourke’s addition to the team could be a turning point in their quarterback strategy, bringing new energy and potential to the team’s performance.