Patriots make two surprising QB cuts, leaving only Mac Jones on roster

The New England Patriots quarterback room is going to be a very lonely place for Mac Jones on Tuesday afternoon.

Specifically, because he is the only quarterback officially on the roster following the team's final cuts ahead of the 53-man roster deadline. 

The Patriots made the surprising decision to cut quarterbacks Bailey Zappe and Malik Cunningham, which came just one day after they released Trace McSorley. It is a pretty strong indication that head coach Bill Belichick is unhappy with his quarterback depth chart and is prepared to look outside the organization for Jones' backup. 

Zappe is the most surprising cut here because he was not only a fourth-round pick a year ago, he also appeared in four games, started two of them (winning both), and showed some promise while filling in for an injured Jones. He completed over 70 percent of his passes with five touchdowns and a 100.9 passer rating.

That showing, as well as Jones' regression, even left open the possibility that he might be able to compete with Jones for the starting spot this season.

Obviously, that did not happen.

It's also surprising that the Patriots were unable to even get a draft pick for him in a trade given how many teams are desperate for solid quarterback depth.

Cunningham was one of the more intriguing players in the NFL this preseason as the Patriots were attempting to utilize him all over the field, lining him up as a passer, running back and wide receiver. Cunningham was a four-year starter at quarterback at Louisville where he broke Lamar Jackson's school record for rushing touchdowns. He was willing to play any position in the NFL, but struggled passing the ball and only caught one of the nine passes thrown his direction in the preseason. 

The Patriots are going to find another quarterback in the coming days, but it remains to be seen where it will be on the waiver wire or with a trade for a veteran.