Everyone is still scratching their heads wondering what the New England Patriots plan on doing at the quarterback position this week. As expected, coach Bill Belichick was non-committal when speaking with the media on Friday, but he did provide another major clue.
Bailey Zappe has reportedly taken the top reps at practice, and things are leaning in the direction of him starting over Mac Jones, who worked with the scout team on Wednesday.
Jones has looked shaky over the last couple of games with some of the worst throws you’ll see at the quarterback position. Considering he was a Pro Bowler in 2021, it has been one of the most shocking drop-offs by a young player in recent history.
Belichick noted Zappe’s mentality and consistency as positives when discussing him as a player.
“He’s pretty consistent. … He’s pretty even-keeled. Not a lot of roller coaster with him,” said Belichick.
Bill Belichick on Bailey Zappe: “He’s pretty consistent. … He’s pretty even-keeled. Not a lot of roller coaster with him.”
Still won’t say who is starting on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/57rJF7IX9z
— Zack Cox (@ZackCoxNESN) December 1, 2023
Meanwhile, it has been the roller coaster ride from hell with Jones under center. No, it isn’t all of Jones’ fault, and Belichick deserves the brunt of the blame for failing to develop his young signal-caller and surrounding him with the necessary playmakers to succeed.
But the compliments aimed at Zappe are in direct contrast to many of the negatives out there on Jones. Zappe might not be the better quarterback on paper, but he also isn’t Jones.
The Patriots could start from there, and see if it makes them any better.
