Patriots rookie Malik Cunningham thrived in his professional debut on Thursday night against the Texans.
Cunningham, an undrafted free agent out of Louisville, starred at quarterback in the ACC and latched on with the Patriots to begin his NFL career. The early returns on Cunningham in the 20–9 loss were promising.
Cunningham has been working as both a quarterback and wide receiver in camp as New England has looked to utilize his dynamic skill set. Cunningham did not record a catch as a receiver on Thursday, but did have some good moments at quarterback.
Cunningham completed 3-of-4 passes for 19 yards and ran the ball five times for 34 yards and a touchdown. While Cunningham is a longshot to make the roster as a quarterback with Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe in tow, there’s potential for Cunningham to still make the team if he proves to be an asset in other ways.
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Played WR in the first half. QB in the second half.
— NFL (@NFL) August 11, 2023
Malik Cunningham is doing everything he can for the @Patriots. @MalikMalikc10
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For what it’s worth, Bill Belichick was pleased with Cunningham’s performance on Thursday.
“He did a nice job,” Belichick said after the game. “Showed some poise out there, some toughness, moved the team, did a nice job. He’s been working both spots. That’s his opportunity and he’s done a good job with it. He’s embraced it, he’s worked hard, he’s improved a lot as a receiver, and the snaps he’s had at quarterback and tonight he’s done a good job with it.”
Catching Belichick’s eye is an important step for Cunningham, who is doing everything he can to make the roster this fall.
