Why the New England Patriots Might Consider Trading Quarterback Bailey (2024)

By Arslan Saleem August 16, 2024 09:55

Photo by AP Photo/MIchael Dwyer

The status of Bailey Zappe as the New England Patriots journey through a sizable transition in their quarterback room is discussed at length. The addition of rookie draft pick Drake Maye and veteran Jacoby Brissett to the team has cast a cloud over Zappe's roster status. Today, we dive into why trading Zappe would occur, examining his performance, salary cap implications from a trade, andmuch more.

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The Zappe Factor Now and Into the Future

During his two years in New England, Zappe started eight games and went 4-4. Although his statistics are less than encouraging, a 59.9% completion rate and an unimpressive touchdown-to-interception ratio of 11 to 12, they show that Mariota has demonstrated the ability to win games and exhibit poor decision-making under duress.

The positive spin being put on his playing by analysts has been highlighted thanks to two wins during a difficult season for the Patriots, demonstrating he can get it done when it matters. But he struggled under new offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien, especially in 2023, and hard questions about his longevity as a starter loom. He has the stat line of someone who isn't quite yet reliable in starting duties, with 2.8% touchdown and 4.2% interception rates for his performance metrics legally tied hand behind his back due to one team carrying the load.

Zappe threw 61 touchdown passes in his final season at Western Kentucky, but some coaches and analysts believe his success likely won't translate to an NFL level. Not only was his track record a short one, but he had also been winning at such an unprecedented rate that the masses simply refused to buy into any sort of franchise QB candidacy. If the Patriots are in rebuild mode this offseason, they could decide that Zappe's ceiling is not in line with their plans and thus explore trading his rights.

Depth Chart and Roster Fit

What we do know is that the Patriots' quarterback depth chart right now is shaping up to look significantly different than a year ago. After trading for Drake Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, and signing Jacoby Brissett, Zappe is now on shaky ground. Maye is the future of the franchise, and Brissett gives Miami a veteran presence with long-time NFL experience in its quarterback room.

Circ*mstances for Zappe as even a potential backup are clouded by the team's desire to see and think about Maye, Brissett fully. However, if the coaching staff feels that Maye is ready to serve in a backup capacity, Zappe may become expendable. Considering the Patriots may want to carry only 2 QBs on their active roster, Zappe could end up being a trade chip. This situation puts the Colonels in an awkward position where Zappe could stunt Maye's growth, rendering a trade somewhat reasonable.

Cap & Contract Info

His current contract is the other crucial factor in any trade discussion for Bailey Zappe. With a modest cap figure for the position at $985,000 this season and signed through 2024, he has security. That cost-effectiveness could intrigue teams needing a medically expensive reserve quarterback as the preseason plays out.

But the Patriots also have to look after their long-term cap interests. On the other hand, if they start Zappe instead of trading him away, this may hinder their abilities to improve elsewhere on the roster, specifically by getting more depth at various spots that need it. Should the Patriots trade Zappe for a late-round draft pick or another asset that can help them address an immediate need, it could free up some cap space and allow them to reinvest elsewhere on their team.

Team Needs and Priorities

In honor of that, we're switching up which direction the New England Patriots will likely go in when they make their third pick. The Pats need a lot, so there's been more speculation around them than any team tied for what might be available come April draft day. There are numerous things the franchise needs to address heading into 2019, from offensive line depth and wide receiver talent to defensive improvements. A trade of Zappe could afford the team even more draft capital or player assets that align with their strategic goals.

Trade Suitors and Potential Return

Assessing the prospect of a trade for Bailey Zappe begins with identifying potential fellow teams. Given the trend of injuries and offensive struggles around the league, several teams may be interested in trading for a young quarterback with starting experience.

With teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in limbo and the Minnesota Vikings possibly looking at a backup behind Kirk Cousins, certain situations would allow Zappe to find a foothold. On top of that, a team like the Pittsburgh Steelers or New Orleans Saints franchises known for grooming signal-callers could see Zappe as a low-risk investment with at least some reward.

The Patriots might get a late-round pick in return, or perhaps a conditional based on development with his new team. With Zappe under contract control and the demand for QBs as is, one could say the Patriots would be foolish not to do what they can to make room if two or more teams are interested.

The New England Patriots have a major decision to make about Bailey Zappe. As they move into their first season in a post-Bill Belichick world and are hungry to get back on track, it will become apparent what that formula is. Zappe's even play, the state of flux at backup QB, salary cap implications, and team needs all point to yes.

In the end, it could make sense for the Patriots if a team can offer them compensation that aligns with their plans moving forward and they find Zappe worthy enough to become one trade option. That's where things stand now, but this certainly won't be the end as long as we still have some preseason games and plenty more decisions for New England coaches to mull.

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