It’s always fascinating to watch a player navigate the often-turbulent waters of the NFL, and Bailey Zappe’s career certainly fits that description. Drafted by the New England Patriots in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, he’s been a name that’s popped up in various team contexts since. You might recall him stepping into the starting role for the Patriots at times, showing flashes of what he could do. He certainly brought some energy and a willingness to push the ball downfield, which is always exciting to see.
But the NFL is a business, and player movement is constant. After his time with the Patriots, Zappe found himself on the practice squads of both the Cleveland Browns and the Kansas City Chiefs. Interestingly, he didn't see any game action in 2025, which highlights the depth and competition at the quarterback position across the league. The Browns, for instance, brought him in as a backup following injuries to their other quarterbacks, a common scenario where a player’s readiness is tested.
More recently, in a move that surprised some, Zappe signed a futures contract with the New York Jets. This is a team that’s been actively looking to solidify its quarterback situation. For Zappe, it’s another opportunity to prove his worth and potentially carve out a more stable role. It’s a chance to be part of a team with a clear objective, and for the Jets, it’s a low-risk, potentially high-reward signing as they build for the future.
When you look at his stats from his time with the Patriots, you see a player who completed about 62.1% of his passes for 2,223 yards, with 12 touchdowns against 14 interceptions. These numbers paint a picture of a quarterback who can move the offense but also one who needs to refine his decision-making under pressure. It’s not uncommon for young quarterbacks to go through this learning curve, especially when thrust into significant playing time.
Comparisons are always tricky in the NFL, as every player has their own unique skillset and path. However, Zappe’s journey—from being drafted, to starting games, to moving between teams and practice squads—is a narrative many quarterbacks experience. He’s shown he has the tools to compete, and now, with the Jets, he gets another shot to develop and contribute. It’s a story of perseverance, and you can’t help but root for a player who keeps fighting for his chance.
