Patriots sign Malik Cunningham to 53-man roster, will he play QB?

The New England Patriots have made a huge roster decision ahead of Week 6 as they've signed rookie quarterback Malik Cunningham to the 53-man roster. And it's not just a practice squad elevation. Surprisingly, Ian Rapoport from NFL Network reports it's a three-year deal for the young, dynamic weapon. The reason behind the length of […]

Mauricio Rodriguez — Dallas Cowboys News Writer
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New England Patriots quarterback Malik Cunningham (16) fights his way into the endzone for a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots have made a huge roster decision ahead of Week 6 as they've signed rookie quarterback Malik Cunningham to the 53-man roster. And it's not just a practice squad elevation.

Surprisingly, Ian Rapoport from NFL Network reports it's a three-year deal for the young, dynamic weapon. The reason behind the length of the contract is to avoid Remember: Cunningham took more snaps at wide receiver during the preseason than he did as a signal-caller. It'll be interesting to see what Bill Belichick has in mind for him as far as a gameday role.

Knowing that a change at quarterback is highly unlikely, fans shouldn't take this as a potential benching of Mac Jones (even though the starting quarterback has not finished two of the games this season). 

What the signing could mean, however, is Cunningham playing at wide receiver and yes, even at quarterback in certain situations. Keep in mind that the Patriots explored running option plays with the rookie during training camp after guaranteeing him a record-setting amount of money. 

Here's how Cunningham's preseason snaps were distributed earlier this year, per PFF:

  • Quarterback: 22
  • Wide receiver (wide): 62
  • Slot WR: 10

At the end of the day, the Patriots offense desperately needs a spark. Mac Jones, Bill O'Brien, and the team's weapons have given fans (and Belichick and yes, the guy paying Cunningham that money) little hope that that is coming. They might as well turn to Cuningham at this point.

And hey, disgruntled fans who were starting to make plans on Sundays will likely be drawn back to Patriots football. They're likely getting their first chance to watch the electric rookie on Sunday versus the Las Vegas Raiders and Josh McDaniels. 

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