Report: Patriots want to trade Ryan Mallett

Appearing as a guest on Thursday's edition of "PFT Live," CSN New England reporter Tom Curran told host Mike Florio that the New England Patriots' "preferred course of action" is to trade quarterback Ryan Mallett. 

Mallett is entering the final year of his rookie deal. The third-round pick in 2011 has served as Tom Brady's backup since entering the league. He's attempted only four passes in the regular season.

Mallett trade rumors swirled before May's draft, but nothing materialized. The Patriots used their second-round pick on quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, suggesting they are preparing for a future without Mallett.

It remains unclear what the Patriots want in return for Mallett, nor which teams would be interested in acquiring him. The Houston Texans are frequently mentioned as a possible suitor, as new Texans head coach Bill O'Brien was an offensive assistant with the Patriots when Mallett was drafted.