Patriots waive Malik Cunningham for second time, rookie QB could return to practice squad again if unclaimed

The New England Patriots are taking another risk on a backup quarterback, placing rookie Malik Cunningham through waivers for the second time this season. Although New England waived Cunningham Tuesday, he can return to the practice squad if he goes unclaimed.

Cunningham played in just one game this year, where he was the backup to Mac Jones. He played just six snaps in the Week 6 game against the Las Vegas Raiders, being sacked once in limited action. He only played quarterback on two snaps, while lining up as a receiver on the other four. 

Cunningham’s athleticism stood out in Patriots training camp this summer, similar to his playing days at Louisville. He threw for 9,660 yards and 70 touchdowns while rushing for 3,179 yards and 50 touchdowns in five seasons. Not only did Cunningham succeed Lamar Jackson at Louisville, but it was believed Patriots head coach Bill Belichick was going to convert him from a good college quarterback into an NFL wide receiver (see Julian Edelman). 

Instead, Cunningham was used in a variety of positions on offense over the course of the season. Offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien said it was week-to-week on how he was used. 

Cunningham was released earlier this summer, along with backup quarterback Bailey Zappe, on 53-man roster cutdown day. He was brought back to the practice squad and signed to the active roster last week, reportedly on a three-year deal.