3 Players the Patriots Will Regret Leaving Off the 53-Man Roster
By Tyler Maher
2. Malik Cunningham
Speaking of quarterbacks, Belichick also waived Cunningham, who appeared set to be the QB3 after Trace McSorley was cut.
Cunningham is raw and may not have a future as an NFL quarterback, but he’s an exceptional athlete who can play somewhere. The Patriots were using him at wide receiver and gunner in the preseason, giving him value as a potential utility player.
His speed and versatility apparently did not impress Belichick enough to keep him on the roster. That’s surprising, given Belichick’s creativity and ability to plug square pegs into round holes.
Cunningham is a project, but he has the upside to be a good investment if he pans out. He still needs time and patience to see where he fits best, but it’s too early to give up on him.
New England is also likely banking on Cunningham clearing waivers and ending up on the practice squad, but that’s not guaranteed. With his tantalizing athleticism, another team (especially a rebuilding one) may take a shot on him.