Why Mallett to Patriots makes sense(By Vic Carucci)

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The guy had some off-the-field issues. He had feet that moved as if perpetually stuck in mud. Clearly, those negatives outweighed the positive of the ex-Arkansas quarterback's tremendously strong passing arm.

At least enough to cause Mallett to slip all the way to the third round.

But this might prove to be a blessing for Mallett. By landing with the New England Patriots at the 74th overall pick Friday, he's with the one team and the one coach that could do plenty to help him to overcome those negatives and turn into the standout NFL quarterback that many people believed he might become before his reputation superceded his talent.

Mallett is the perfect project for Belichick, who has the time and patience to take it on because he has a quarterback named Tom Brady, and together they own three Super Bowl rings.

Mallett will know this from the start: Belichick won't tolerate any knuckle-headed behavior. He'll know that because Belichick will tell him. He'll know that because Brady and other veteran teammates will tell him.

If he can stay out of trouble and get with the program, he might be able to develop that talent and eventually become Brady's replacement.