Patriots' Bill Belichick won't name backup quarterback just yet

FOXBOROUGH, MA – While Mac Jones is the definite starter for the New England Patriots this season, there is still one question that remains in the quarterback room.  Who will serve as the backup this season?  And on Friday, that answer might have become a little more clear.  Bill Belichick spoke with the media and […]

Sophie Weller NFL Trending News Writer
Add as preferred source on Google
Matt Corral, Bailey Zappe
Sophie Weller – A to Z Sports

FOXBOROUGH, MA – While Mac Jones is the definite starter for the New England Patriots this season, there is still one question that remains in the quarterback room. 

Who will serve as the backup this season? 

And on Friday, that answer might have become a little more clear. 

Bill Belichick spoke with the media and was asked if Matt Corral is expected to serve behind Jones this season, but the Patriots coach opted to stays mum on the quarterback battle. 

"That's a decision we'll have to finalize here today," Belichick said. "I think it's a consideration. Bailey (Zappe) certainly has the advantage on experience and time in the system and all that. We'll see how that plays out. We have a couple different options there, so we'll try to make the best one."

However, during the media attended portion of practice, one of the quarterbacks was missing from the field. 

Bailey Zappe was warming up alongside Jones, but Corral was nowhere to be found. 

Along with Corral, running back Rhamondre Stevenson was a surprise absence. Cornerback Jack Jones was also missing, dealing with a hamstring injury that could sideline him for an indefinite amount of time. 

Zappe was waived during final roster cuts and was signed to the Patriots practice squad the following day. New England then claimed Corral, the former Carolina Panthers quarterback. 

While it's not certain what Corral's exact status is, his absence just two days away from the season opener seems to be very telling. 

Featured Image via Sophie Weller – A to Z Sports