(Photo by Billie Weiss/Getty Images)
Bill Belichick’s tenure in charge of the New England Patriots has taught us to always expect the unexpected.
This season wasn’t the exception to that rule, as the lifelong HC cut backup QB Bailey Zappe, leaving Mac Jones as the only quarterback on the 53-man roster.
Zappe went 2-0 as a fill-in starter last season and was even sent to the field to sub a struggling Mac Jones during a game.
Belichick has also claimed that he would have a chance to compete for the QB1 job this season, and while Jones still took all first-team reps, he was expected to be a lock to make the team as a backup.
That’s why even veteran special team star Matthew Slater was shocked and emotional after finding out that Zappe was no longer a part of the team.
“I’ve learned to expect the unexpected”
Matthew Slater reacts to backup QB Bailey Zappe being released by the Patriots pic.twitter.com/voo16N8GnA
— NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSBoston) August 29, 2023
Slater shared some emotional words upon hearing the news, as reported by NBC Sports Boston.
Zappe entered the league as a fourth-round pick out of Western Kentucky.
Injuries helped him climb the pecking order and make his way as a backup, and that shortlived ‘Zappe fever’ made some people think he had a legit chance to take Mac Jones’ job.
Even so, Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that the Patriots could still look to bring him back if he manages to clear waivers, so there’s still a chance he makes the team’s practice squad.
Whatever the case, one thing’s for sure: This is Mac Jones’ team and will continue to be so until proven otherwise.
The post Matthew Slater Has Honest Reaction To Bailey Zappe Being Cut appeared first on The Cold Wire.