Former Patriots QB1 Drops Blunt Admission On New England Situation

The end of the 2023 season saw Bailey Zappe as QB1 for the New England Patriots, but things have drastically changed.

After bringing in Jacoby Brissett and drafting Drake Maye out of UNC, Zappe is fighting tooth and nail to just make the 53-man roster. Plus, he's also competing with ex-Tennessee gunslinger Joe Milton for the third QB spot.

Regardless, Zappe is hungry to make an impression on head coach Jerod Mayo and prove he belongs on this team despite minimal opportunities so far in training camp.

Via Pro Football Talk:

“That’s really up to the coaches and what they think and what they see fit,” Zappe said. “Mayo has preached quality over quantity. So that’s kinda been my mindset going into this whole training camp. Whether it’s five or 10, or today none, I’m going to do everything I can to help the team win, as far as helping Jacoby out, helping Drake out after when they go through their series.

"I think the reps are going to come. That’s stuff’s going to come. I believe in the coaches and everything. I think if the opportunity presents itself, I'll take advantage."

Zappe played in 10 games last season and went 2-4 as the starter. He completed 59.9% of his passes for six touchdowns against nine interceptions. Zappe has quite the uphill battle to even see the field in '24, but it's clear the 25-year-old is staying positive and looking to jump at any chance to prove himself.

The worst-case scenario for Zappe is likely being placed on the practice squad. The Pats know what he's capable of, so not all is lost quite yet when it comes to his time in New England.

Related: 49ers Coach Makes His Feelings Clear On Brock Purdy's Training Camp Problem