NFL Rumors: Bailey Zappe Agrees to Chiefs Practice Squad Contract After Patriots Exit

Doric SamAugust 28, 2024

Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

After being released by the New England Patriots at Tuesday’s roster cuts deadline, quarterback Bailey Zappe has reportedly found a new home.

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Zappe is signing with the Kansas City Chiefs to join their practice squad.

Zappe was the odd man out of a crowded Patriots quarterback room that includes veteran starter Jacoby Brissett and rookies Drake Maye and Joe Milton III. His playing time dwindled during the preseason from playing a team-high 36 snaps in the opener to five in the second game and six in the finale. He finished the preseason 15-of-25 for 137 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions.

The 25-year-old had re-signed with the Patriots after being waived on roster cutdown day last year, but he opted for a change in scenery this time around. Prior to his departure, Patriots quarterbacks coach T.C. McCartney praised him for how he handled the end of his tenure in New England.

“Bailey’s been a pro’s pro,” McCartney said, per ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “He’s been in some tough situations here over the years. Tough situation when you go in for your first preseason game [this year] and they boo. He’s been the same guy every day, and he’s had a really good camp. He’s gotten a lot better from Phase 2 [of the offseason] when I first saw him. I’ve been impressed.”

The Chiefs have arguably the best quarterback in the business in Patrick Mahomes and a veteran backup in Carson Wentz, so Zappe won’t be seeing the field anytime soon. Perhaps he will be able to work his way up to the main roster and learn from the back-to-back reigning Super Bowl champs.