The New England Patriots’ backup quarterbacks have been a focus this week with both Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe struggling under center.
Patriots coach Bill Belichick was asked about the backups on Friday afternoon, and he had high praise for both Malik Cunningham and Will Grier.
Grier was signed by the Patriots in the middle of September. He was asked to fill the third-string quarterback role, but he might begin to play an even bigger role than originally thought. There is even a report that he could be the go-to quarterback, if Mac Jones continues to struggle in Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Grier does have starting experience, as he started two games for the Carolina Panthers in 2019. Belichick was not afraid to praise the quarterback, while tempering expectations overall, when meeting with the media.
“The opportunities he’s had, he’s done well with,” said Belichick. “It’s hard to get that position a lot of reps. But, you know, he’s a smart kid, throws the ball well, he’s got a good arm. You know he’s learned things, picked up things, so we’ll see, just kinda keep going here, keep feeding him as much as we can. But, there’s only so many snaps out there. Obviously, everybody needs them.”
Bill Belichick had good things to say about Malik Cunningham and Will Grier pic.twitter.com/UlnglbRtVW
— NBC Sports Boston's Patriots Coverage (@NBCSPatriots) October 13, 2023
Although that’s not exactly Belichick handing over the keys to the offense, it does sound like Grier is impressing him. That may be something to monitor as the season continues.
