Former Patriots’ 2022 “Fever” Star Refuses to Play in Week 8 game Patriots vs. Brownsc at Gillette: “I Don’t Want to Face My Family”

Foxborough, Massachusetts — An emotional story is spreading among New England Patriots fans this week, as former quarterback Bailey Zappe — the icon of the 2022 “Zappe Fever” — is reportedly refusing to play in the Week 8 matchup between the Patriots and Cleveland Browns, with a reason that has touched many: “I don’t want to face my family.”

According to internal sources from the Browns, Zappe — currently on the practice squad — had the opportunity to be elevated to the active roster when Cleveland faced quarterback depth issues. However, he voluntarily asked to withdraw, citing personal reasons. A leaked source revealed the real reason: he did not want to face his former team, the place that gave him happy days and unconditional love from fans.

Zappe, drafted by the Patriots in the 4th round in 2022, had a rare breakout period when replacing the injured Mac Jones. The chants of “Zappe! Zappe! Zappe!” echoed throughout Gillette Stadium as he led the team to victories over the Detroit Lions and the Cleveland Browns themselves — the team he now wears the colors of.

After leaving the Patriots, Zappe’s career faced many hardships. He was cut by the Patriots, then wandered through the Kansas City Chiefs before finding a foothold in Cleveland. However, he himself admits that he still cannot leave New England in his heart.

“The Patriots are where I grew up, where I found joy and confidence,” Zappe shared in a leaked interview. “I didn’t just learn how to play football there — I learned how to be a better person. To me, they’re not just a team… they’re family.”

When asked about the possibility of playing if the Browns needed him against the Patriots, Zappe just smiled:

“It’s hard to play against the place that opened my dreams. There are things in football that go beyond the game’s outcome. I just know that — my heart is still in Foxborough.”

Bailey Zappe’s story once again reminds fans that, in the harsh world of professional football, there are still players who play for love, not just contracts or fame. Though no longer wearing the Patriots uniform, to many in New England, Bailey Zappe will forever be the “beloved son” of Gillette Stadium.