Latest move confirms suspicion regarding what Patriots thought of former starter
Bailey Zappe's time with the New England Patriots appears to have come to an end. During final roster cuts, the Patriots waived the quarterback, multiple sources report. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero had it first. Things were headed this way after the team drafted two quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft. And Zappe was then competing […]
Bailey Zappe's time with the New England Patriots appears to have come to an end.
During final roster cuts, the Patriots waived the quarterback, multiple sources report. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero had it first.
Things were headed this way after the team drafted two quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft. And Zappe was then competing for the No. 3 spot with sixth-round pick Joe Milton III.
But after Milton's promising performance in the first preseason game combined with the excitement and unknown he brings to the roster, the rookie got increased playing time during practice and in the following two games.
While Zappe did get a lot of time in the first preseason game, he only came in for the final drive of the second and third game. He finished the preseason going 15-for-25, throwing for 137 yards.
So the question is, will the team try and bring him back on the practice squad?
While the Patriots might be interested, it's hard to see why Zappe would. The team will already have three quarterbacks on the roster, and it's clear that the coaching staff doesn't really see a future with Zappe. So if he can't get a true shot in New England, why come back?
The only way this might happen is if there is no interest elsewhere.
But Pelissero also pointed out that there are several teams who will be in the market for a backup quarterback, and Zappe has proven to be a solid option. He stepped in last season when Mac Jones was struggling, and had some solid plays. It was even enough for him to be named the starter over Jones.
Plus the team could have moved on from him this offseason, but instead they kept him while trading Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars. They see him as a leader and an important piece in the locker room.
After being selected in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Zappe played in 14 games during the last two seasons with the Patriots. And that included eight starts.
He finishes his career with New England going 192-for-304, for a completion percentage of 63.2%. He recorded 2,053 passing yards along with 11 passing touchdowns, but 12 interceptions. On the rushing side, he had 27 carries for 83 yards and one touchdown.
