Over the past two decades or so, the New England Patriots have become one of the most intimidating rivals and winning franchises in the National Football League. However, all good things come to an end.

With Tom Brady's departure and the Patriots losing several players ahead of this season, some people believe that the dynasty is over, and filling in Brady's shoes in Foxborough will not be an easy task.

That's why formerDetroit Lions star Matthew Stafford reportedly wanted nothing to do with Bill Belichick's team and demanded the team to trade him anywhere but to the New England Patriots, according to multiple reports.

Matthew Stafford Wanted To Play Anywhere But In New England

"With a load of cap space and a yawning void at the position, the Patriots figured to be frontrunners for Stafford along with teams like the Colts. But Stafford apparently nixed the notion of being the guy that replaces the guy that failed to replace THE GUY," Tom Curran of CBS Sports reported.

 

"There are enough former Patriots in Detroit who would have been able to advise Stafford on the vibe here. Also, Stafford just lived through the Matt Patricia Era in Detroit. The former Patriots defensive coordinator ran a .500 franchise under Jim Caldwell onto the rocks in less than three seasons. Patricia has rejoined the Patriots staff this offseason. Probably not a selling point," the report concluded.

The Patriots vastly struggled with Cam Newton under center this season and are believed to be ready to move on from him. And with Stafford out of the picture, look for them to pursue other options such as Jimmy Garoppolo, or even Sam Darnold.

As for Stafford, he'll now be surrounded by an elite corps of weapons with the Los Angeles Rams, playing under Sean McVay's quarterback-friendly system, so he must be quite satisfied by the way things turned out for him at last.