Ryan Mallett’s trade stock took a major hit this weekend after a subpar showing in the Patriots' Week 1 loss to the Washington Redskins. Sports Illustrated’s Peter King believes that the Patriots options with Mallett are now limited to a seventh-round pick or simply cutting the former Arkansas standout.

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Mallett registered a lackluster 5-for-12 for 55 yards and faced plenty of criticism in his first action in the preseason. King stated in his “10 Things I Think I Think” section of the Monday Morning Quarterback that he wouldn't be shocked if the Patriots cut Mallett or trade him for scraps.

“I think I won’t be shocked if the Patriots cut Ryan Mallett … or get a seventh-round pick for him from someone.”

Patriot staring quarterback Tom Brady came to Mallett’s aid Monday and said that he just needs the opportunity to shine and play his game.

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"Ryan just needs an opportunity," Brady said. "He hasn't had a chance over the last few years to get in there and show what he can do. But I've always loved working with Ryan. He's got great ability to be able to step in there and do the job, and I think everybody has a lot of confidence that he can do it. He just hasn't had the chance.”

Mallett is set to be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season and is expected to draw some interest from around the league, but the Patriots had hoped his preseason play could spark trade talks. Mallett has been unsuccessful through one week of preseason action, but will get another shot when the Patriots host the Philadelphia Eagles on Friday.

[CSNNE]

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