The Kansas City Chiefs have signed quarterback Bailey Zappe to a one-year deal, adding depth to their quarterback room after recently acquiring Gardner Minshew. Zappe spent some time with the Chiefs last year, although he did not see game time during the 2024 season after being placed on the practice squad. He later played for the Cleveland Browns, where he made a modest impact in a late-season game against the Baltimore Ravens, completing 16 passes for 170 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.

This move could indicate the Chiefs are preparing for competition for the backup quarterback position, especially considering Minshew's health status, making Zappe a significant addition to the roster heading into the next season.

The Kansas City Chiefs have signed former New England Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe to a one-year deal, signaling a shift for the player after his cut in August 2024. Zappe's journey included a stint on the Chiefs' practice squad, followed by a promotion to the Cleveland Browns' active roster, where he ended the season with a standout performance against the Baltimore Ravens, throwing for 170 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.

Joining a team with Patrick Mahomes and Gardner Minshew on the quarterback depth chart, Zappe's role may likely start as a practice squad player. This will provide him an opportunity to assimilate into the Chiefs' system under head coach Andy Reid, allowing him to develop further while learning from established veterans.

The Cleveland Browns continue to struggle with their quarterback situation following a disappointing 3-14 season. The team has cycled through 40 quarterbacks since its return to the NFL in 1999, with Bailey Zappe being the latest starter. With the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Browns are contemplating their next move. Deshaun Watson, the centerpiece of a significant trade in 2022, has not lived up to expectations, particularly due to injuries that limited his appearances. After suffering a torn Achilles this season and then re-injuring it, Watson is likely facing another year on the sidelines. The Browns’ options at quarterback are limited, with Jameis Winston set to hit free agency.

As the draft approaches, the Browns might have the chance to select either Shedeur Sanders from Colorado or Cam Ward from Miami, both of whom are seen as promising prospects despite the draft class lacking elite quarterback talent. Ward stands out with impressive stats, having thrown for 39 touchdowns in 2024, making him a compelling candidate for Cleveland. The team faces a critical decision that could shape its future, given its troubled history at the quarterback position.

Deshaun Watson, quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, underwent surgery for a ruptured Achilles tendon for the second time in three months, threatening to sideline him for the entire 2025 NFL season. Watson's discomfort surfaced after he rolled his ankle in Miami, and further examinations confirmed the re-rupture, necessitating another operation.

Having played only 19 games over three seasons due to suspensions and injuries, the news complicates his future with the Browns, who owe him $92 million as part of a $230 million fully guaranteed contract. General manager Andrew Berry acknowledged Watson's recent setback while the team explores their options.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has undergone surgery for a torn right Achilles tendon, raising concerns about his availability for the 2025 season. The recovery timeline is estimated at seven months, creating a possibility for his return next season, according to sources.

Watson's latest setback was revealed after an end-of-season physical, with team general manager Andrew Berry confirming that the injury will not drastically alter the team's quarterback strategy. Currently, the only quarterback under contract beyond 2024 is Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who faced challenges in his limited starts this season.