NFC assistant GM admits his team 'undervalued' Patriots QB Bailey Zappe during draft

The Score’s Jordan Schultz reported that rookie quarterback and fourth-round draft pick Bailey Zappe will get the start for the 1-3 New England Patriots when they host the 1-3 Detroit Lions Sunday, as expected. New England QB1 Mac Jones continues to recover from a reported high-ankle sprain he suffered in Week 3. 

Schultz added an interesting nugget of information ahead of the weekend. 

"I think we probably undervalued him a little during the draft," an unnamed NFC assistant general manager told Schultz about Zappe. "He’s smart and plays solid football, if that makes sense. But his two best assets are his accuracy and mind."

It was reported earlier this week that Patriots owner Robert Kraft wanted Zappe to start over veteran Brian Hoyer for what became last Sunday's 27-24 overtime loss at the Green Bay Packers. Hoyer got the nod for that contest but went down with a concussion that landed him on injured reserve. 

While filling in for Hoyer, Zappe completed 10-of-15 passes for 99 yards and a touchdown in the losing effort. The 23-year-old will now make the first pro start of his young career in front of what should be a friendly crowd against the Lions. 

Garrett Gilbert should be elevated from the practice squad to serve as Zappe's primary backup this weekend.