Patriots Add QB/WR Malik Cunningham to Roster Amid Mac Jones’s Struggles

The dynamic rookie could bring a spark to New England’s offense following a rough start to the 2023 season.

As Mac Jones looks to shake off a rough start to the 2023 season, the Patriots are reportedly adding an intriguing, dual-threat rookie quarterback to the main roster ahead of Week 6.

New England has agreed to terms on a three-year deal with QB/wide receiver hybrid and former Louisville standout Malik Cunningham, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Saturday. The move will elevate Cunningham, 25, from the Patriots practice squad, which he joined in August after impressing the team as an undrafted free agent in training camp and the preseason.

With the Patriots (1–4) in search of a spark, Saturday’s move brings added intrigue entering Sunday’s game against the Raiders (2–3) after a week of practice that saw the team work on packages for Cunningham under center and at receiver, according to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer.

Former Louisville star Malik Cunningham has played multiple positions for the New England Patriots, and was recently added to the active roster :: Eric Canha/USA TODAY Sports

Cunningham’s addition to the roster now gives New England a third option behind backup Bailey Zappe and Jones, who remains the starter despite logging a putrid 1,008 yards, five touchdowns and six interceptions through the first five weeks.

It’s unclear whether Cunningham will see the field but the decision to sign the dynamic first-year player and work his skillset into the gameplan amid Jones’s struggles suggests coach Bill Belichick and offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien could look to factor him in against Las Vegas.

During his five years at Louisville, Cunningham recorded 9,664 passing yards, 70 TDs and 29 interceptions to go with 3,182 rushing yards and another 50 scores on 619 rush attempts.