04 March 2023 , 22:50
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The New England Patriots might officially have a quarterback battle on their hands with impressive rookie Bailey Zappe set to be given a chance to win the starting job over Mac Jones.
The Patriots looked to have found their long-term replacement for Tom Brady in 2021 when they drafted former Alabama quarterback Mac Jones in the first-round, who had an impressive rookie season under the circumstances, but struggled in his recent year in a dysfunctional Patriots offense.
And after missing time with injuries this past season, fourth-round rookie Bailey Zappe stepped in and performed admirably - arguably even better than Jones had all season with some fans wanting Zappe to be given more time as the starter.
And it appears that Zappe will now have a real shot in becoming the starter. The Athletic has reported that while Jones is "expected" to be the starter. Zappe will "get the chance to push for the job". The same report stated that Belichick asked his coaching staff not to go too hard on the starting quarterback.
Zappe came in on Week 3 when Jones was injured, and would be sidelined for three weeks. The back-up impressed from his first game, almost leading a victory over Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, before leading the team to a domiant 29-0 win over the Detroit Lions and another win over the Cleveland Browns, scoring 38 points.
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The following week though, Zappe threw two interceptions in a loss to the Chicago Bears, and he would not play again in the season with Jones reclaiming the starting spot.
Bailey Zappe and Mac Jones will be in a competition next seasonThe Patriots were heavily criticised for their offensive coaching hiring's last season, choosing not to bring in an offensive coordinator with Matt Patricia calling plays for Mac Jones - a defensive coach throughout his career.
Many had claimed that Jones was put in a poor situation to succeed, with the quarterback openly criticising the coach at one point in the season. Now though, O'Brien will take over the role as playcalling the offense, a role that he performed well in whilst with the Patriots and Alabama.
O'Brien has been impressive in the role in recent years, helping quarterback Bryce Young win a Heisman Trophy in 2021 - a player who is likely to be selected first overall in the upcoming NFL draft.