The New England Patriots’ quarterback hierarchy through the first 10 practices of training camp was pretty clear. It was Mac Jones as the starter on top, with Bailey Zappe the backup and Trace McSorley the third-stringer on the roster bubble.
While those labels are still accurate after practice No. 11, another player has now entered the arena. Malik Cunningham saw his first extended action at quarterback on Monday.
A dual-threat QB in college, who had a record-breaking career at Louisville, Cunningham arrived in New England as an undrafted free agent earlier this year. The Patriots, however, did initially not appear interested in having him actually serve as a passer: they made him transition to wide receiver, a position he has played throughout spring and summer so far.