Cleveland Browns Add QB Bailey Zappe to Practice Squad

The Cleveland Browns have signed veteran quarterback Bailey Zappe to their practice squad following the trade of Kenny Pickett to the Las Vegas Raiders and the release of Tyler Huntley. Zappe, who spent part of the 2024 season with the Browns and started their regular season finale against the Baltimore Ravens, provides added depth and experience to a quarterback room currently led by Joe Flacco and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Zappe, a 2022 fourth-round pick by the New England Patriots, has prior familiarity with Browns coach Kevin Stefanski's offense, making him a valuable insurance option and mentor for the younger quarterbacks. The Browns' quarterback group had been reduced to three players before Zappe's return, as Deshaun Watson remains on the reserve/physically unable to perform list while recovering from Achilles surgery. Zappe was waived by the Kansas City Chiefs earlier this week after signing a one-year deal in March. His addition restores the Browns to four healthy quarterbacks, balancing experience and youth as they prepare for the upcoming season.