QB Bailey Zappe announcement that he is leaving Patriots now another significant issue for team…..
Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:
1. Zappe’s honor: Bill Belichick might be philosophically opposed to publicly announcing Bailey Zappe as the Patriots’ starting quarterback, but he made it clear to the team this past week by giving Zappe one of the most prestigious honors.
Belichick singled out Zappe in a team meeting as a Patriot of the Week, along with special teams captain Matthew Slater, veteran cornerback Jonathan Jones and safety Jabrill Peppers.
For many who have come through the Patriots’ locker room in Belichick’s 24 years as head coach, being recognized by Belichick in that setting in front of the entire team is as good as it gets. Belichick noted Zappe’s stat line in last week’s 21-18 win over the Steelers (19-of-28 for 240 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT) and how going on the road to beat a team still in the playoff chase was worthy of a salute.
Meanwhile, for Slater, the honor was an acknowledgment of his exemplary leadership in a challenging 3-10 season. Jones, the eight-year veteran, has also been a leader by example and had clingy coverage on a decisive fourth-down stop. Likewise, Peppers had an interception and is an emerging leader.
Zappe’s inclusion gives him a potential lift leading into Sunday’s home game against the 8-5 Kansas City Chiefs (1 p.m. ET, Fox), while giving teammates another reason to rally around him.
“When he’s in that huddle, our confidence is through the roof,” receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster said.
Smith-Schuster also referenced Zappe’s composure and “the quick decisions he makes, being able to get the ball out, and being able to move with his feet” as things that have impressed him.
While there are likely to be growing pains ahead for Zappe — which very well could come Sunday against an attacking Chiefs defense — his calmness in the face of pressure has earned him respect among his peers.
“Just his poise,” Peppers said, when asked what Zappe has done to catch his attention. “He takes care of the ball. Great pocket presence. And he throws a pretty ball. We want to keep playing hard for him and give him as many opportunities we can.
As for what it’s like to be singled out by Belichick in front of the entire team, Peppers explained why it’s a highlight for him.
“It feels good. He has 50 years in coaching, has coached some incredible players and Hall of Famers, so I don’t take it for granted to be able to play for him and learn from him. I want to be one of the guys he’s telling stories about. It definitely makes you want to go harder.
