The New England Patriots’ bizarre, on-and-off relationship with quarterback Malik Cunningham took another turn Tuesday when the team waived him.
The Patriots had just activated the former Louisville star off the practice squad Oct. 14, a move that prompted many observers to wonder if a move was imminent with embattled starting quarterback Mac Jones.
The rookie played several snaps in the Patriots’ loss to the Las Vegas Raiders Oct. 15, so at least he can say he got into a game before being waived.
But given Cunningham’s history with the Pats, don’t be surprised if he finds his way back to New England. Cunningham, who broke or threatened many of Lamar Jackson’s Louisville records, went undrafted this year. He signed with the Patriots as a free agent, then got waived during the preseason.
Then the Patriots re-signed Cunningham to the practice squad. The team then elevated him to the active roster for Week 6, reporting he had signed a three-year deal. Cunningham was inactive in Sunday’s win against the Buffalo Bills.
The Patriots seem comfortable with Bailey Zappe and Will Grier backing up Jones. The third-year QB looked incredible in the upset win over the Bills, completing 25-of-30 passes for 272 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
Twitter user DJ Martinez summed up Cunningham’s strange relationship with the Pats.
“The kid deserves a chance elsewhere,” he tweeted.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.