What’s the quarterback situation at the Patriots? Mac Jones and who else?

The NFL’s deadline for finalizing their 53-player rosters arrived, and the New England Patriots made a surprising move by retaining only one quarterback on the roster, namely Mac Jones.

According to the NFL Network report, the Patriots released Bailey Zappe. Additionally, The Athletic reported that the New England franchise parted ways with undrafted rookie Malik Cunningham. Yesterday, the team under the guidance of head coach Bill Belichick also separated from Trace McSorley.

Although Zappe’s situation comes as a surprise, it is not definitive as there could still be changes. The second-year player appeared in four games last season, and the Patriots achieved a 2-0 record when he started. The Western Kentucky graduate completed 70.7 percent of his passes for 781 yards, with five touchdowns and three interceptions.

On the other hand, Cunningham showcased exciting flashes during the preseason. The former Louisville Cardinals player completed three of the six passes he attempted, gaining 19 yards, and produced 39 yards along with a touchdown on six rushes.

Patriots looking for a veteran QB

The actions taken by the New England management make sense if their goal is to acquire a veteran quarterback to serve as a mentor for Mac Jones. Last year, 37-year-old Brian Hoyer was part of the Patriots’ QB room. Moreover, the other quarterbacks who were released are all young. Jones will turn 25 in a week, Zappe and Cunningham are 24, and McSorley just turned 28.