Despite being a 3-11 team this season, the New England Patriots have had some bright spots. Players like Christian Barmore, Christian Gonzalez, and Demario Douglas popped this season, showing flashes of elite play. Other Patriots players did what they had to do to save their jobs or spots on the roster.
Here are three players who saved their jobs this season.
#1 Patriots player that saved their job: Bailey Zappe
Bailey Zappe is not a great quarterback by any means, but he can be a viable backup quarterback in the NFL. Since taking over for Mac Jones, Zappe has had decent stretches of play that lead me to believe he can be the Patriot's backup moving forward.
For example, Zappe threw for 240 yards and three touchdowns against a good Pittsburgh Steelers defense. He also had some excellent throws against the Kansas City Chiefs last Sunday.
BAILEY ZAPPE HITS HUNTER HENRY FOR THE 4TH DOWN TOUCHDOWN! pic.twitter.com/Csf9RiTXSe
— Ben Brown 🌻 (@BenBrownPL) December 17, 2023
After starting the season on waivers from being cut by the Patriots, I think it's safe to say that Zappe saved his job this season. I would not mind having Zappe be the backup to whoever the Patriots draft in the top three this season.
#2 Patriots player that saved their job: Jahlani Tavai
This season's most surprising breakout player for the Patriots has been linebacker Jahlani Tavai. In his third season with the Patriots, he has reached a new level, thrilling fans with his stellar play. Heading into the season, I considered Tavai a fly-on-the-wall player who could become a cut candidate, but he has put that idea to bed.
He has recorded 90 total tackles, one forced fumble, and two interceptions this season. You could argue that Tavai has been the best defensive player for the Patriots in 2023. And because of that, he has earned a spot to be a key defensive player in the Patriots rebuild.
#3 Patriots player that saved their job this season: Anfernee Jennings
Anfernee Jennings is another Patriots player who entered this season with a chance of being cut but has now earned a spot on the defense. Jennings, a former third-round pick in 2020, has excelled in an enhanced role this season, posting a career-high in tackles and is tied for his career-high in sacks.
Anfernee Jennings having his best day as a pro was a big reason for the #Patriots success last night
— Taylor Kyles (@tkyles39) December 8, 2023
Proving to be an elite run defender with his devastating blend of power, sturdiness, and instincts https://t.co/lHDuRWa5Xi pic.twitter.com/wHvnzY7BCH
He should be involved in the Patriots defensive plans moving forward because he has shown flashes of great play this season.