Quarterback Bailey Zappe didn’t stay on the free-agent market for long. After being waived by the Cleveland Browns earlier this week to make room for defensive tackle Jowon Briggs, Zappe cleared waivers and re-signed with the team, returning to the 53-man active roster.
Zappe, previously serving as the Browns’ emergency third quarterback over the past four games, has yet to see action this season. While his role moving forward remains uncertain, his return provides Cleveland with added depth at the QB position alongside Jameis Winston and Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
The former New England Patriots quarterback brings experience from his two-season tenure in Foxborough, where he appeared in 14 games, starting eight. Zappe stepped into the spotlight in 2023, starting the final six games after Mac Jones was benched, finishing with a 59.9% completion rate, 1,272 yards, six touchdowns, and nine interceptions. However, he was waived by the Patriots before the 2024 season due to competition from Drake Maye, Jacoby Brissett, and Joe Milton III.
After a stint on the Kansas City Chiefs practice squad, Zappe was signed by the Browns in the wake of Deshaun Watson’s season-ending Achilles injury. Despite Zappe’s return, the Browns face an uphill battle, as they were officially eliminated from playoff contention following their Monday Night Football loss to the Denver Broncos.
With the Browns’ season winding down, Zappe’s presence could serve as insurance and provide opportunities for him to further prove his value in a reshuffled quarterback room.
