The Cleveland Browns have a new backup quarterback in town.
The Browns are signing Bailey Zappe off the Kansas City Chiefs practice squad, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported Tuesday morning, per sources informed of the situation.
The move comes after Deshaun Watson's season-ending Achilles injury. Dorian Thompson-Robinson's status is in flux due to a finger injury that forced him out of Sunday's loss to Cincinnati. Jameis Winston could start in Week 8 against Baltimore, and if DTR isn't available, Zappe would be the backup.
A fourth-round pick in 2022, Zappe made eight starts over 14 appearances in two seasons with the New England Patriots. The QB showed some energy, pop and a willingness to stretch the field, but he also threw 12 interceptions to 11 touchdowns. With the Pats completely starting over at the quarterback position under Jerod Mayo, Zappe was the odd-man-out, eventually landing on the Chiefs practice squad after being released before the start of the season.
At the very least, Zappe's presence provides Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski a veteran backup with starting experience as Cleveland attempts to save its spiraling season.
