Is Patriots’ New Quarterback Jacoby Brissett Superior to Bailey Zappe and Mac Jones?
Signed as a “bridge” to the New England Patriots’ quarterback of the future, Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels, Jacoby Brissett prompts the question: Is he an improvement over Mac Jones or Bailey Zappe?
The trade of Mac Jones, followed by the swift signing of Jacoby Brissett, signals a particular strategy for the New England Patriots in 2024: They’re prepared to rely on a backup plan.
Brissett represents the NFL’s equivalent of an emergency spare tire stowed away in your car’s trunk: rudimentary, with limited performance, to be used only in dire circumstances until a better option is available. However, the anticipated upgrade wasn’t Jones; instead, the Patriots are pinning their hopes on a rookie quarterback selected third overall in the upcoming draft, potentially Jayden Daniels or Drake Maye.
At 31 years old, Brissett embarks on his fifth team in as many seasons, returning to where his NFL journey began as a rookie in Foxboro back in 2016. Despite serving as a capable substitute for injured quarterbacks such as Jimmy Garoppolo and Tom Brady, Brissett has never been able to secure a starting role for an extended period.
Throughout his career, Brissett has started 48 games, achieving a record of 18-30. While he emphasizes the importance of being a good teammate, evidenced by his numerous stints as a backup quarterback, Brissett has yet to experience postseason action in his eight-year NFL tenure.
With a one-year, $8 million contract, the Patriots’ investment in Brissett doesn’t signal a long-term commitment. However, they aim to stabilize their current situation and prevent a recurrence of their recent struggles.
As Jones moves on to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Patriots face uncertainty at the quarterback position. Brissett’s arrival raises questions about whether he is a better option than Jones or even Bailey Zappe.
The Patriots’ journey ahead appears to be one of cautious progress, as they navigate the complexities of their quarterback situation with Brissett at the helm, at least for the time being.
