On Tuesday, the New England Patriots made a surprising move by releasing their backup quarterbacks Bailey Zappe and Malik Cunningham, leaving Mac Jones as the sole signal caller on the initial 53-man roster.
Mac Jones in the Pats QB room pic.twitter.com/yXFyRyBrHe
— TMSPN.com (@sportsgossip) August 29, 2023
However, there seems to be a strategic reason behind this decision, as reported by Dianna Russini of The Athletic. According to Russini’s tweet on Wednesday morning, the Patriots are planning to assign Zappe as their backup QB if he clears waivers and joins the practice squad.
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
If not, they are exploring other available options, as stated by league sources. Zappe, a fourth-round selection from Western Kentucky in 2022, had a notable rookie season, playing in four games and starting in two. He showcased his skills by completing 70.7% of his passes for 581 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions.
On the other hand, Cunningham, an undrafted rookie from Louisville, made a positive impression during the preseason, making the Patriots consider bringing him back on the practice squad. However, relying on the young dual-threat quarterback to immediately serve as the primary backup might be asking too much.
Hence, Bill Belichick is looking to secure the return of Zappe or explore external options if necessary.
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