The Patriots are elevating quarterback Bailey Zappe from the practice squad to the 53-man roster ahead of their Week 1 game vs. the Eagles, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports.
Zappe, a fourth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Western Kentucky, was a surprise cut last month as New England kept Mac Jones as their lone quarterback on the roster following cut day. No team put in a claim for Zappe, allowing the Patriots to re-sign the sophomore to their practice squad.
Alongside Zappe, former Louisville quarterback Malik Cunningham was also cut and signed to the New England practice squad. Additionally, the Patriots claimed Matt Corral from the Panthers, but according to Ian Rapoport, the team is releasing him to make room for Zappe.
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In 2022, Zappe played in four games, winning both of his starts and throwing for 781 yards with five touchdowns and three interceptions. The Patriots open the season at home against Philadelphia before hosting the Dolphins next week.
