Entering the 2022 NFL Draft, quarterback wasn’t a significant need for the Patriots. A year prior, New England used a first-round pick on Mac Jones. While Jones is far from an untouchable veteran star, Bill Belichick definitely wasn’t looking to replace a second-year player.
But that didn’t mean the Patriots couldn’t still take a passer — albeit someone who’d likely project more as a backup. Enter Bailey Zappe, who quickly learned it’s best never to say never.
On Day 3 of the Draft, Zappe had yet to hear his name called. Like many prospects, the former Western Kentucky standout waited for a phone call while hanging out with loved ones. His time was coming; he just didn’t think it’d ever happen with the Patriots.
And boy — when they picked Zappe at No. 137 overall in the fourth round, it made for a heartwarming moment.
Bill Belichick gave QB @baileyzappe04 a phone call he'll never forget. #HeyRookie
(via @NFLFilms) pic.twitter.com/rnwWGozBlK
— NFL (@NFL) May 6, 2022
Wow, what a powerful scene.
It’s not necessarily unique in itself that someone like Zappe has an emotional reaction to his dream coming true. But when you package that emotion with a healthy dose of surprise, when that dream comes true when you least expect it: That pulls at the heartstrings.
We’ll see what Zappe can achieve with the Patriots soon enough. For now, I’m sure he and his family are still basking in that moment of celebratory shock.
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