Patriots sign QBs Malik Cunningham, Bailey Zappe back to practice squad

On Tuesday, the New England Patriots made headlines by releasing every quarterback on the roster outside of Mac Jones. It seemed like an odd move and made many people wonder what Bill Belichick was planning to do for a backup quarterback.

Now, the Patriots are starting to show their plan, resigning both Malik Cunningham and Bailey Zappe to the practice squad. This comes after both quarterbacks cleared waivers, per Tom Pelissero.

As members of the practice squad, Zappe and Cunningham aren’t going to count against New England’s 53-man roster. However, they easily could be promoted to the 53-man roster in case they’re needed. That means that the Patriots have two stylistically different players on the practice squad who can definitely have an impact on the team this season.

However, neither of these two is going to be the backup. So, this move also leaves the question open as to who New England’s backup is going to be. After all, it’s not practical to only take one quarterback into a game in case of injury.

It’s most likely that Bill Belichick is going to want more experience than Bailey Zappe offers as Mac Jones’ backup. That means the Patriots are likely looking for a veteran who becomes available after being cut or they can get for the right price in a trade.

Zappe being cut was a surprise to many in New England. In 2022, as a rookie out of Western Kentucky, he played in four games, starting twice. With a 70.7 completion percentage for 781 yards and five touchdowns, many Patriots fans became enthralled with the young signal-caller and many even called for him to replace Jones. That doesn’t appear likely, now.

Cunningham had a similar impact on Patriots fans this preseason, where the rookie flashed his dual-threat capability. He was exciting to watch but was a long shot to make the 53-man roster from the start.

According to Pelissero, there were several teams who were interested in Zappe once he was able to clear waivers. However, he chose to stay with the Patriots in his new capacity instead of moving to a new franchise.

The intrigue behind Mac Jones, who has plenty to prove in 2023 in his own right, will undoubtedly continue. That includes who the new backup in New England is going to be, can they push Jones to become the new starter, and if Zappe or Cunningham can make the active roster after starting the regular season on the practice squad.