The New England Patriots dismissed backup quarterbacks Bailey Zappe and Malik Cunningham on Tuesday, cementing Mac Jones as the team’s starter and leaving a significant vacuum behind Jones on the depth chart.
Jones is the team’s lone quarterback at the moment.
Last season, Zappe started two games in place of an injured Jones and quickly became a fan favourite in New England after leading the club to two wins, with supporters screaming “Zappe! Zappe! Zappe!” in hopes of seeing more of him.
He completed 65 of 92 passes for 781 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions as a fill-in last season.
Zappe started the 2023 season as Jones’ top backup, with since-released Trace McSorley and undrafted free agent Cunningham third and fourth on the depth chart, although some speculated that he may challenge Jones for the job.
However, the 2022 fourth-round selection out of Western Kentucky only participated in three preseason games, going 30-of-51 for 247 yards with one touchdown and no picks. He was sacked six times as well.
Zappe and Cunningham might return to the Patriots’ practise squad if they pass waivers.
Longtime captain and team veteran Matthew Slater was among many who did not anticipate Zappe to be released.
“Certainly something that is, I guess, surprising for a lot of us, but that’s just the nature of the business,” he said. “I adore Bailey.” He is aware of my feelings for him. He’s one of my all-time favourite kids.”
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