Patriots QB Bailey Zappe discusses relationship with OC Bill O’Brien

New England Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe spoke with reporters Wednesday about what seems to be an improved working relationship with offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien.

"The more games that I play, the more games that he calls and I’m out there, of course, we’re going to continue to grow together and get closer and closer," Zappe said about O'Brien, per Patriots beat reporter Dakota Randall of NESN. "...He’s open to everything I see. And of course, I’m open to everything he wants to run. And, he’s called a great game, and it’s up to me as the quarterback to go out there and execute. We have a great relationship off the field. The more we’re on the field with practice and games, it’ll continue to grow more on the field." 

It was previously reported that one reason the Patriots waived Zappe before he was re-signed to the practice squad following the preseason was that the 24-year-old proved to be "less of a fit" in O'Brien's offense than Mac Jones. Such whispers continued amid Jones' regular-season struggles until head coach Bill Belichick placed Zappe atop the depth chart for the Week 13 game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Zappe thus far is 1-2 as a starter for the 3-11 Patriots. 

Multiple knowledgeable individuals have mentioned that Jones allegedly didn't take to so-called "hard coaching" over his first three NFL seasons. Zappe indicated on Wednesday he's just fine with a little tough love now and again. 

"I always tell him I like to be coached hard," Zappe added about O'Brien. "I want you to let me know when I’m screwing up. Let me know what I need to fix every day. He knows that, and I love that about him. Me and him have really hit it off and we’re going to continue to grow our relationship over the last few weeks." 

Rumors about Belichick's uncertain future continue to hover over the Patriots, and it appears likely the franchise will go in different directions regarding coaching and quarterback during the offseason. Zappe may not have a long-term home in New England, but he should receive opportunities to impress other organizations beginning with Sunday's prime-time game at the 7-7 Denver Broncos.