The New England Patriots cut quarterback Bailey Zappe last Tuesday, sending him to waivers. They were able to get him back, but it was a risky move, given that he could have been claimed by another team.
Patriots coach Bill Belichick was asked about the team’s decision to cut Zappe, when speaking with media members on Monday, and he wouldn’t elaborate on why he made the move specifically.
Buy Patriots TicketsHe just kept it simple.
“All the roster decisions are based on what we feel like is best for our football team,” said Belichick, via NESN’s Zack Cox. “There’s a number of things involved there. But glad to have Bailey and continue to work with him. I still think he’s a good, young, developing player, so we’ll keep working with him.”
At the time of the move, the Patriots only had one quarterback on the roster in Mac Jones. Thankfully, they were able to retain both Zappe and Malik Cunningham on the practice squad.
The Western Kentucky product had a difficult preseason, recording 196 yards and a touchdown on 22-of-36 pass attempts. Nevertheless, he gives the Patriots depth and experience within the team’s system, which could be important in case of an injury.
Things obviously won’t be easy for Jones when playing behind an offensive line that has struggled throughout the preseason. The biggest question is whether Zappe will stay on the practice squad or get promoted to the main roster as the No. 2 quarterback.
New England recently claimed second-year quarterback Matt Corral on waivers, which adds even more competition for Zappe this season.
