The New England Patriots realize they need to address their quarterback rotation after trimming down their roster to just 53 players earlier this week.

After that move, Mac Jones was the only play-caller left for the Pats, with Bailey Zappe and Malik Cunningham among the quarterbacks cut from the roster, which left many surprised.

The New England Patriots did claim former Carolina Panthers QB Matt Corral off waivers, and he is expected to be among the backup options of Pats coach Bill Belichick, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported.

However, New England needs to broaden its options at the QB position. Hence, Zappe and Cunningham will likely compete for the backup job alongside Corral, Rapoport added.

Who has the inside track?

Zappe is seen as the one who may have a slight edge when he battles Corral for the backup QB job. The 24-year-old is familiar with the New England Patriots playbook and system and held up well last season, covering for an injured Mac Jones.

But after helping the Pats win two games last season, Zappe struggled at New England training camp, failing to impress in the team's preseason games.

However, critics expected the Pats to give Zappe another chance - a reason why he was placed on the practice squad.

Don't count out Cunningham

Cunningham, an undrafted rookie from Louisville, will crowd Zappe and Corral for the backup job. If not as quarterback, the 24-year-old could be an option for another position since he is listed both as a quarterback and a wide receiver, SI.com pointed out.