The quarterback situation is one to keep an eye on with the New England Patriots as the 2023 NFL Draft draws near. There is reportedly some contention between head coach Bill Belichick and 2021 first-round pick Mac Jones. New England has reportedly shopped Jones around in trades, so some major changes could be on the horizon.
It would be hard to imagine the Patriots going after another quarterback, but you never know when it comes to Belichick and company. At the very least, a developmental prospect could be brought aboard to learn behind Jones and Bailey Zappe, who some people within the organization would like to see start more games.
A late-round quarterback to keep an eye on would be Malik Cunningham out of Louisville. The Patriots are one of the teams that he has already met with, along with the Washington Commanders, Las Vegas Raiders, Baltimore Ravens and Indianapolis Colts.
Cunningham brings with him vast playing experience, playing in 56 games. He is a legitimate dual threat, throwing for 9,660 yards and rushing for 3,179. He threw for 70 touchdowns and ran in another 50, as he is a prolific playmaker. The 120 total touchdowns that he scored broke Lamar Jackson’s record.
His legs are his biggest difference-maker. There were multiple instances that he took over running the ball as he possesses excellent running skills whether it is on designed quarterback runs or improvisation. Cunningham needs to be accounted for on every play, even passing downs, which makes for some challenges when game planning against him.
But, there are certainly strides to be made when it comes to the passing game as a drop-back player. There are some accuracy issues, especially when he is pushing the ball down the field, and a tendency to sometimes stare down his target.
Certainly a developmental prospect, packages could be drawn up immediately to take advantage of his athleticism. The Patriots are in need of some weapons offensively, and Cunningham would certainly qualify as one with his legs.
As a late-round pick or even undrafted free agent, the Patriots could certainly do worse. While Cunningham may never become a starter in the NFL, finding a spot on the back end of a roster or practice squad should be relatively easy. Teams will find a use for that kind of athleticism with trick plays and specific packages to make the most of Cunningham’s skill set.
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