Patriots Make a Move to Draft Record-Breaking QB Bailey Zappe In Fourth Round

The New England Patriots shocked NFL analysts and fans with every move they made in the 2022 NFL Draft. First, they used the No. 29 pick to get Cole Strange. Why did the Patriots draft a QB?

Head coach Bill Belichik used the 137^th overall pick to get Western Kentucky quarterback Bailey Zappe.

With the No. 137 overall pick in the 2022 @NFLDraft, the @Patriots select Bailey Zappe!

?: 2022 #NFLDraft on NFLN/ESPN/ABC pic.twitter.com/TSxC1dt6uZ

— NFL (@NFL) April 30, 2022

Zappe, 23, broke records in his first season after his arrival in Western Kentucky. He measures at 6 feet, 213 pounds. Zappe earned Conference-USA MVP honors for the brilliant performance that helped him set new FBS records. He broke records in passing yards (5,987) and touchdowns (62). There’s more. Zappe completed 69.2 percent of his attempts and recorded only 11 interceptions.

Patriots draft QB for a reason

The Patriots rookie was a five-year starter between two schools. He was an unknown quantity for the first three years of his career at college. Zappa was the focal point of Kittley’s Air Raid offense at FCS Houston Baptist. However, his mechanics, physical tools, and release time were decent. He wasn’t an elite player. How will he handle bigger and faster defenders?

Zappe’s Huskies went against Texans Tech in 2020. The quarterback picked the Red Raiders’ defense apart to the tune of 567 yards and four touchdowns.

COVID-19 happened and Zappe’s redshirt junior season after four games. He did deliver great numbers. Zappe had 15 touchdowns to one interception on 65.5 completion percentage and 159.4 passer rating.

Zappe was predicted to be a Day 3 pick. Vinnie Iyer predicted that he would end up with the Indianapolis Colts as the No.122 overall pick. Of course, Zappe can work on his arm strength and release. Keep in mind that Zappe also ran a 4.88 in the 40-yard dash.

The Patriots got a really good player. Zappe learned the playbook really well. Belichick will probably use him as a developmental backup behind Mac Jones and Brian Hoyer. Jarrett Stidham’s future with the team is hanging in the air. Zappe’s selection may push him out of the team. Will the Patriots trade him this season?