The New England Patriots took a significant roster move on Saturday, waiving their third-string quarterback, Will Grier, as confirmed by a source to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. The team’s depth chart now features Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe, with coach Bill Belichick keeping the starting quarterback for Sunday’s road game against the New York Giants under wraps. This decision follows Belichick’s benching Jones in the team’s recent Week 10 loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Frankfurt, Germany.
Throughout the week, Jones and Zappe shared practice repetitions, according to an insider. Grier was relegated to the clear No. 3 option and was not factored into the mix. The Patriots also have former Louisville quarterback Malik Cunningham on the practice squad, but he has primarily transitioned to a receiver role since joining the team as an undrafted free agent in May.
Grier’s stint with the Patriots began when they signed him off the Cincinnati Bengals practice squad on September 23. Belichick had emphasized the importance of quarterback depth over the course of a demanding season. However, Grier never saw game action, serving as the emergency quarterback for seven games.
In an unusual scene in the Patriots’ locker room on Tuesday, Grier found himself surrounded by reporters seeking insights into the team’s quarterback plans. Expressing readiness for any situation, he stated, “My role my entire career has been to be ready. Injuries happen. You’ve seen around the league a lot of guys had to step up and be ready to play, and if I have to, I’ll be ready to go.”
With Grier’s departure, the Patriots are anticipated to utilize his roster spot to address pressing needs in the offensive line. Tackle Conor McDermott is currently unavailable due to practice squad elevations, and there’s potential for the addition of veteran tackle/guard Riley Reiff off injured reserve.
Currently, the Patriots find themselves in a challenging position with a 2-8 record, placing them at the bottom of the AFC standings.
