Patriots select QB Bailey Zappe in 4th round

The New England Patriots selected Western Kentucky quarterback Bailey Zappe in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, No. 137 overall.

The Patriots add a prolific passer behind starter Mac Jones. Zappe's eye-popping numbers at Western Kentucky caught the eye of head coach Bill Belichick and New England's front office.

The native of Texas, who has set collegiate records, finds himself on a depth chart that will also feature Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer.

Scouting profile: Bailey Zappe

Zappe spent four years as the starter at Houston Baptist in the FCS before following his offensive coordinator to Western Kentucky. There, the young quarterback posted an astronomical stat line, throwing for 5,967 yards and 62 touchdowns. Though the numbers are impressive, it's important to note that Zappe lacks the physical tools to be considered a legitimate starting option in the pros. Though his field savvy and above-average accuracy were essential to his record-setting campaign, it was really his timing and understanding of the system that propelled him. If asked to run an NFL offense for more than a few games, Zappe's lack of elite traits would be exposed. His solid pro day performance likely guaranteed he'll hear his name called during the later rounds of this year's draft and eventually slide into a backup role.