The level of competition in the NFL is off the charts.
Only a small fraction of even the best players in college football will see the field consistently in the league. Tennessee Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill is an example of a player who understands and acknowledges how difficult it is to remain a starter. He infamously said it’s not his job to mentor rookie quarterback Malik Willis, and he elaborated by saying that they both are fighting for the same role.
New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones is entering his second year and he’s already seen the team draft a quarterback behind him. The Patriots selected Bailey Zappe out of Western Kentucky in the fourth round and he was extremely accomplished on the collegiate level — breaking numerous NCAA records.
New England began its voluntary OTAs on Monday and Jones discussed the addition of Zappe — with a very different response than Tannehill.
“We’re happy to have Bailey,” Jones said, transcribed by NESN. “Obviously, had a great college career, and he provides good knowledge from his experience. And I’ll always be available to help him and mentor him any way I can. I was fortunate to learn from (backup quarterback Brian) Hoyer last year as a rookie. And, hopefully, me and Hoyer can help Baily out any way possible and help him develop to where he feels like he’s a better quarterback.”
Brian Hoyer is still on the roster and Jarrett Stidham is now with the Las Vegas Raiders, leaving three in the quarterback room. Zappe won’t likely see the field much, if at all, this season and he’ll work on developing as an NFL quarterback.
Regardless, it has to be refreshing to hear Jones’ willingness to bring him along.
