New England Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe. David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Former Patriots fourth-round pick named possible 'surprise' cut

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By Matt Lombardo | Last updated 5/10/24

The New England Patriots believe they have finally found an heir apparent to Tom Brady — if such a thing exists, after selecting Drake Maye with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

But, the former North Carolina quarterback’s arrival in Foxborough could spell the end of a former Patriots draft pick who’s made eight career starts behind center’s time in New England.

Patriots could move on from Bailey Zappe

Following Maye’s arrival, NFL Insider Ari Meirov lists Bailey Zappe as a possible surprise cut between now and the 2024 NFL season, which kicks off in September.

“The New England Patriots signed Jacoby Brissett,” Meirov wrote. “Drafted Drake Maye at No. 3 and took a flier on Tennessee QB Joe Milton in the sixth round. That makes Zappe the odd man out.

“It’s hard to envision much of a trade market for Zappe, who was cut last year and went unclaimed on waivers. His time in New England could be nearing an end, barring something unforeseen.”

At times during his career, Zappe looked like he could be a modest upgrade over Mac Jones but rarely consistently played like a high-level NFL starting quarterback.

Zappe has completed 63.2 percent of his passes for 2,053 yards with 11 touchdowns to 12 interceptions.

Perhaps Zappe will land with a franchise looking to add a young, developmental backup quarterback who they could potentially eventually flip into a draft pick in a future trade. But, in all likelihood, he has attempted his final pass in a Patriots uniform.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: