Just one day after the New England Patriots released Baily Zappe, he went from a bottom-projected NFL team to signing with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Similar to his first release, the sought-after QB didn't take long to sign an undisclosed deal with the Chiefs on Wednesday. After clearing waivers, he was almost instantly picked up and assigned as the third-year quarterback to their practice squad, with just Patrick Mahomes and backup Carson Wentz officially listed on their depth chart.
Before signing Zappe, the Chiefs released quarterback Ian Book, as the team reduced its roster from nearly 90 players to 53. Cuts also included Welch rugby hopeful Louis Rees-Zammit and Kadarius Toney, who caught just three passes for 22 yards in the preseason.
The Patriots waived Zappe as part of their roster cuts for the upcoming season, which saw 30 offseason hopefuls leave the franchise. The Patriots QB group saw steep competition under the leadership of new coach Jerod Mayo, as the team carried veteran Jacoby Brissett and 2024 NFL Draft picks Drake Maye and Joe Milton III.
Zappe was released twice by the organization, the first time on Aug. 29, 2023. But he re-signed with the team just one day later as a practice squad member, eventually joining the active roster less than a week later. The final cut came after Zappe spent both of his NFL seasons with the team. He assumed the role of a starter eight times while battling with Mac Jones and played in 14 total games.
With Zappe under center, the Patriots had an even 4-4 record. His stats included 2,053 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, with a 78.5 passer rating.
Follow us on X for the best and latest in sports news
During the preseason opener, Zappe was featured against the Carolina Panthers in a 17-3 win . While Brissette started and Maye played the following offensive drive, Zappe took over with five minutes left in the first quarter. He played until the end of the third quarter and was replaced by Milton, who ended the game. Zappe finished the game with 108 yards on 12-of-20 passing.
Zappe was much less featured in New England's second game, a narrow 14-13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles . He completed just three passes, playing in only the game's final drive, which resulted in a fumble from a botched snap under center.
Mayo has yet to name an official starter for the NFL season. The team will open its campaign on Sept. 8 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Brissett suffered a shoulder injury during the preseason but insists he will be ready by Week 1. Maye's preseason performances have impressed Patriots fans, indicating they'd like to see him take the reigns to start the year.
Local Kansas City, MO
Most Popular
Comments / 0