The New England Patriots have signed a quarterback to play backup to Mac Jones after cutting both Bailey Zappe and Malik Cunningham earlier this week.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Pats claimed former Carolina Panthers QB Matt Corral off waivers this Thursday.
Corral was selected by Carolina out of the first round of last year’s draft. Ironically, New England traded their pick to the Panthers to help them secure Corral back then, and he’s now set to suit up for the Pats in 2023.
Fans were likely worried after Tuesday’s cuts left Jones as the only quarterback on the Pats’ 53-man roster yet the Pats have wasted little time getting a replacement. Furthermore, both Zappe and Cunningham have joined the NE practice squad following reports that the team always planned to re-sign the former at some point.
Corral comes in as an interesting option for Bill Belichick. Jones will be playing under much better conditions in 2023 after taking his instructions from a defensive coordinator last season but Corral will have opportunities at various points, especially if the starter gets injured.
