Patriots Snag QB Matt Corral as Backup for Mac Jones

• NFL

In an unexpected twist in the NFL quarterback carousel, the New England Patriots have swooped in to solve their quarterback shortage. Contrary to popular belief that the Patriots would lean toward a seasoned veteran, they've instead secured the talents of Matt Corral, the ex-Panthers quarterback.

The development, as revealed by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, unfolded when the Patriots took the opportunity to claim Corral off waivers this Thursday. This comes just a day after the Carolina Panthers decided to part ways with him.

The Panthers acquired Corral, who was once the shining star of Mississippi, in the 2022 draft after trading up with none other than the Patriots. This investment came with high hopes; however, fate intervened. Before Corral could dazzle on the regular-season field, he was sidelined by a debilitating Lisfranc injury during a preseason bout in his inaugural season.

Patriots' Strategic Trade Play

The narrative becomes even more intriguing when examining the details of the Panthers' trade with the Patriots. In their eagerness to secure Corral as the 94th overall pick, Carolina gave up a 2022 fourth-rounder and a 2023 third-rounder to New England.

The Patriots subsequently utilized that fourth-round pick to bring on Western Kentucky's quarterback, Bailey Zappe. In a surprising move, Zappe was released by the Patriots, only to be re-signed to their practice squad recently.

Looking at the chessboard, the Patriots have strategically positioned themselves with both Zappe and Corral at their disposal, leaving the Panthers to grapple with their choices. However, the Panthers aren't necessarily at a loss.

They made a resounding statement by using their No. 1 overall pick to enlist Alabama's prodigy, Bryce Young, who's poised to lead Carolina's offence come Week 1. As for Corral, he's setting sail to the Northeast, ready to don the Patriots' colours.

His primary role? Mac Jones is standing as the backup to the promising Patriots' starting quarterback. New England's strategic play may be another testament to their renowned foresight in the ever-unpredictable world of professional football.