Bailey Zappe Signed Away from Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs Rivals

In a move that adds more tension to the already heated AFC playoff race, backup quarterback Bailey Zappe has been signed away from his previous team by one of the Kansas City Chiefs’ top rivals—the Denver Broncos—who are looking to strengthen their quarterback depth as they push for a division title. Bailey Zappe Signed Away from Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs Rivals isn’t just a routine roster transaction; it’s a strategic play by the Broncos to gain a competitive edge, as Zappe brings both NFL game experience and a familiarity with offensive schemes that could counter the Chiefs’ defense. For Zappe, who had been stuck in a backup role with limited playing time, the move offers a chance to contribute to a playoff-contending team. But for the Chiefs, it’s a reminder that their rivals are actively seeking ways to narrow the gap, especially as the season enters its most critical phase.

Bailey Zappe Signed Away from Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs Rivals begins with the circumstances that led to Zappe’s availability and the Broncos’ interest. Zappe, a fourth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, had spent the past two seasons with the New England Patriots, where he showed flashes of potential—including two starts in his rookie year where he threw for 575 yards and four touchdowns. However, with the Patriots committing to Mac Jones as their starter, Zappe found himself relegated to third-string duties this season, seeing action in just three games for a total of 12 pass attempts. The Broncos, who have been dealing with uncertainty at the backup quarterback spot behind Russell Wilson, identified Zappe as a low-risk, high-reward addition. “Bailey has proven he can step in and win games in this league,” Broncos general manager George Paton said in a statement. “His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions aligns with our offensive philosophy, and he’ll provide valuable depth as we head into the playoffs.” The Broncos signed Zappe to a one-year deal with a base salary of \(1.2 million, with incentives that could push the total value to \)2 million if he sees significant playing time.

Bailey Zappe Signed Away from Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs Rivals next explores why the Broncos—one of the Chiefs’ most bitter rivals—targeted Zappe specifically. Beyond his on-field talent, Zappe’s familiarity with offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien’s system (O’Brien served as the Patriots’ offensive coordinator in 2023) was a key factor. The Broncos hired O’Brien this offseason, and Zappe’s ability to quickly learn and execute the scheme means he can contribute sooner than a quarterback with no prior experience in it. Additionally, Zappe has faced the Chiefs’ defense twice in his career, including a 2022 game where he completed 15 of 24 passes for 185 yards and a touchdown in a narrow loss. This firsthand knowledge of the Chiefs’ defensive tendencies—from their blitz packages to their coverage schemes—gives the Broncos an added layer of preparation when they face Kansas City in their upcoming Week 16 showdown. “Having someone who’s played against the Chiefs and understands their defense is invaluable,” Broncos head coach Sean Payton said. “Bailey can share insights that will help our entire offense, not just our quarterbacks, prepare for that game.”

Bailey Zappe Signed Away from Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs Rivals highlights how the Kansas City Chiefs’ coaching staff is viewing this move and the potential challenges it poses. While the Chiefs have long relied on Patrick Mahomes as their starter, they’re well aware of the impact a capable backup quarterback can have in the playoffs—especially if injuries or fatigue become factors. The Broncos’ signing of Zappe means that if Wilson were to get hurt, Denver wouldn’t have to turn to an unproven rookie or a journeyman with little NFL experience; instead, they’d have a quarterback who has already won games at the professional level. For the Chiefs’ defense, which has been working to refine its game plan for the Broncos, Zappe’s presence adds a wildcard—they now have to prepare for two different quarterbacks with distinct playing styles (Wilson’s mobility vs. Zappe’s pocket passing). “We always prepare for multiple scenarios, but adding a quarterback like Zappe to their roster means we have to be even more detailed,” Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said. “He’s a smart player who doesn’t make a lot of mistakes, so we can’t afford to let our guard down.” The Kansas City Chiefs’ scouting department has already begun reviewing film of Zappe’s past games, focusing on his tendencies under pressure and his favorite targets, to ensure the defense is ready for whatever the Broncos throw at them.

Bailey Zappe Signed Away from Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs Rivals delves into the ripple effects of this signing on the AFC West race and the broader playoff picture. The Broncos currently hold a one-game lead over the Chiefs in the division, and adding Zappe strengthens their roster depth at a position where many playoff teams struggle. For the Chiefs, who are already fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive after a recent loss to the Bills, the Broncos’ move is another reminder that every team in the division is doing whatever it takes to win. It also raises questions about the Chiefs’ own backup quarterback situation—behind Mahomes, they have Blaine Gabbert, a 12-year veteran who has played in just two games this season. While Gabbert has more experience than most backups, he hasn’t started a game since 2021, and the Chiefs haven’t made any moves to add additional depth at the position. “We feel confident in Blaine,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said when asked about the team’s quarterback depth. “He’s a professional who knows our system and has played well when called upon. We’re focused on our own roster and our own preparation.” Still, the Kansas City Chiefs’ fans and analysts alike have wondered if the team will now look to add a third quarterback before the playoff roster deadline, especially with the Broncos raising the stakes.

Bailey Zappe Signed Away from Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs Rivals wraps up with a look at what Zappe’s role could be in Denver and how it might impact the upcoming Chiefs-Broncos matchup. While Payton has made it clear that Wilson remains the starter, Zappe is expected to take on a significant role in practice, simulating opposing quarterbacks and helping the Broncos’ defense prepare for future opponents. He’ll also be active on game days, serving as Wilson’s primary backup and ready to step in if needed. For the Week 16 game against the Chiefs, Zappe’s insights could prove crucial—he can help the Broncos’ offense anticipate the Chiefs’ defensive adjustments and identify weaknesses in their coverage. “I’ve played against the Chiefs, and I know how their defense likes to attack,” Zappe said in his introductory press conference with the Broncos. “I’m going to do everything I can to help this team win, whether that’s on the field or in the film room.” For the Kansas City Chiefs, this means they’ll have to prepare for a Broncos team that now has more weapons and more knowledge of their defense than ever before. As the season winds down, this signing could end up being a key factor in determining who wins the AFC West—and who gets a coveted first-round bye in the playoffs. Bailey Zappe Signed Away from Squad by the Kansas City Chiefs Rivals is, at its core, a story of competition and strategy—two rivals doing whatever it takes to gain an edge in a race that will likely come down to the final week of the season.