Report: Patriots, Colts could pursue Dalton trade

The Chicago Bears might have competition for Andy Dalton's services.

The New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts could pursue a trade for the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Chicago has reportedly already contacted the Bengals to discuss a potential trade for the veteran.

Mitchell Trubisky has been named Chicago's starter for 2020, but the NFC North team is believed to want to upgrade its backup spot to push the young quarterback.

Meanwhile, the Patriots and Colts are facing questions of their own under center.

Tom Brady is set to hit free agency for the first time in his career. If Brady leaves, New England will only have 2019 fourth-round pick Jarrett Stidham and journeyman Cody Kessler at quarterback.

Indianapolis appears to be seeking an upgrade for Jacoby Brissett, who struggled to replace Andrew Luck last season. The Colts reportedly are also vetting Philip Rivers before free agency begins.

With Cincinnati widely expected to select quarterback Joe Burrow first overall, Dalton has become expendable after nine years as the team's starter. The Bengals reportedly intend to work with the 32-year-old to trade him to a team that he deems suitable.

Dalton threw 3,494 yards and 16 touchdowns to 14 interceptions in 13 starts last season. He was benched midseason for three games but was reinserted in Week 13.