The New England Patriots surprised many on Tuesday when they released backup quarterbacks Bailey Zappe and Malik Cunningham, leaving Mac Jones as the only signal caller on the initial 53-man roster.
As it turns out, there is a method to their madness, according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic.
“The Patriots are planning for their backup QB to be Bailey Zappe if he clears waivers and makes it to practice squad,” Russini tweeted Wednesday morning. “Otherwise they’re working through a list of who will be available, league sources tell me and @jeffphowe.”
The Patriots are planning for their backup QB to be Bailey Zappe if he clears waivers and makes it to practice squad. Otherwise they’re working through a list of who will be available, league sources tell me and @jeffphowe
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) August 30, 2023
Zappe, a fourth-round pick out of Western Kentucky in 2022, appeared in four games as a rookie and made two starts. He completed 70.7% of his passes for 581 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions.
Cunningham, an undrafted rookie out of Louisville, impressed in the preseason, and perhaps the Patriots would also like to bring him back on the practice squad. However, it might be too much to expect the young dual-threat to serve as New England’s primary backup right away.
That’s probably why Bill Belichick is hoping to get Zappe back–or go outside the organization if necessary.