Patriots' Bill Belichick won't say if Mac Jones, Bailey Zappe will start vs. Bears

Those thinking New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick would declare on Friday who will start at quarterback against the 2-4 Chicago Bears between Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe probably should've known better. 

"We’re just taking it day-by-day," Belichick responded when asked about his quarterback situation for the "Monday Night Football" showdown, per Conor Roche of Boston.com. 

Some may remember Belichick used those exact words weeks ago before he ruled Jones out for the Week 4 matchup at the Green Bay Packers due to what's been reported to be a high-ankle sprain that's kept the 2021 first-round draft pick out for the past three games. Belichick reminded reporters that this isn't a typical Friday for his club because the Patriots aren't playing this weekend. 

"Yesterday was a Wednesday, in my world," he said while flashing a smile and describing Jones' practice sessions throughout the midweek. "He did more yesterday than he did the previous Wednesday. Yeah, that would be fair. Yeah. Today’s actually Thursday." 

Zappe, a rookie and fourth-round draft choice, won his first two pro starts to guide the Patriots to a 3-3 record ahead of Monday evening. The 23-year-old has completed a total of 51 of 70 passes (72.9%) for 596 yards with four touchdowns and one interception with Jones out. But it was reported Thursday that teammates believe Jones can help the offense reach "another level" once he's cleared to play. 

It's assumed Jones will at least dress for Monday's contest. 

"I'm kind of glad we have a little bit of extra time here on the Bears," Belichick added during his comments, according to the Patriots' website. "A team that we don't know very well, but we're getting to know pretty well. It's been helpful. We'll see how it goes here today and just keep stringing them together, get ready for Monday night."