Sticking with the impressive rookie over the established starter coming off an injury historically has worked out pretty well for Patriots coach Bill Belichick. But he does have that decision to make again this week.
Mac Jones practiced on a limited basis Thursday and could be ready to play against the Bears on Monday night after missing three games with a high ankle sprain. But hot rookie Bailey Zappe still might get the call.
The Bears aren’t sweating the decision. They expect to face an efficient quarterback either way. Zappe, a fourth-round draft pick from Western Kentucky by way of Houston Baptist, has a 111.4 passer rating (72.9% completions, four touchdowns, one interception) in three games — including two starts.
“I don’t think it matters that much, because I think Belichick and [Matt] Patricia are gonna run what they’re gonna run regardless of who’s at quarterback,” Bears linebacker Roquan Smith said. “They’re gonna try to run it down our throats is what we think they’re gonna do and what they’ve been doing all year. So I think their game plan still is gonna be pretty similar regardless of who’s back there.”
Zappe was impressive in relief of backup Brian Hoyer in a 27-24 overtime loss to the Packers, then led the Patriots to victories over the the Lions (29-0) and Browns (38-15) in his two starts. Zappe completed 24-of-34 passes for 309 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions for a 118.4 passer rating against the Browns on Sunday in Cleveland.
Jones expects to be ready to play, per an ESPN report. But Belichick could ride the hot hand. Jones has a 76.2 passer rating (two touchdowns, five interceptions) in three starts after an impressive rookie season. Zappe would be making only his third NFL start. But with the Patriots, that’s not the opportunity it might seem to be.
“Those guys up in New England do a great job of taking a lot off his plate, so it’s just about what they allow him to do,” Smith said. “I think it’s really gonna start with us — when we stop the run it’s gonna make them one-dimensional and that’ll make it a lot tougher for them.”
Knock on wood
The Bears had full attendance at practice Thursday, with no injuries reported — a rare occurrence at any point of an NFL season.
For the Patriots, wide receiver Nelson Agholor (hamstring) was the only player who did not practice. But nine players were limited, including starting tackle Isaiah Wynn (shoulder) and starting guard Mike Onwenu (ankle).
Harry situation
Wide receiver N’Keal Harry had full participation in practice for the first time since returning from injured reserve and seems on target to play against his former team.
“He’s looking good. We are certainly pleased with where he is right now,” Eberflus said. “I think it’s exciting anytime you’ve spent some time at a certain place and you get a chance to play at that same arena with some guys that you know.”
