Bailey Zappe, a Western Kentucky alum, has accounted for 596 passing yards, four touchdowns, and an interception as the New England Patriots’ backup quarterback.
He has led the team to back-to-back victories over the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns in Mac Jones’ absence.
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Jones, who got selected at No. 15 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, suffered an ankle injury against the Baltimore Ravens. He’s missed the last three games, but the former University of Alabama quarterback is expected to return and start for New England on Monday Night Football versus the Chicago Bears. According to several insiders for the Patriots, Jones has progressed in practice and there is no quarterback controversy between him and Zappe. Mike Reiss, who covers New England for ESPN, says Jones has one final hurdle to clear this week in practice. He led the Patriots to the playoffs as a rookie and made the Pro Bowl.
There is no QB controversy in New England. When Mac Jones is healthy enough to return to play, he’ll be the starter, per sources. @TheAthletic
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) October 20, 2022
The Patriots didn’t forget that Mac Jones had one of the best rookie seasons ever for a QB and then improved this offseason. https://t.co/nTGlSSpxCR
— Mark Daniels (@MarkDanielsPJ) October 20, 2022
Mac Jones looking good at today’s #Patriots practice. Only WR Nelson Agholor and DL Lawrence Guy are absent. pic.twitter.com/DGpYN5f4Ix
— Jim McBride (@globejimmcbride) October 20, 2022
Thursday Patriots practice report, with Mac Jones’ activity standing out. pic.twitter.com/qDcLlhfVav
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 20, 2022
New England is 3-3 on the season and can make a run at a playoff spot.
We will see how Jones looks in his return to the team.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
