The New England Patriots have made a notable roster move, releasing quarterback Will Grier ahead of their upcoming game against the New York Giants on Sunday. The decision comes after Patriots head coach Bill Belichick stated that all quarterbacks on the team should be prepared to take the field.

Grier, who was signed from the Cincinnati Bengals practice squad on September 22, did not make an appearance in any games for New England. The 28-year-old had been listed as the team's emergency quarterback for seven games. Since his rookie season with the Carolina Panthers in 2019, Grier has not played in a regular-season NFL game.

According to ESPN's Mike Reiss, the Patriots' third-year starter Mac Jones and his primary backup, Bailey Zappe, have split the repetitions in practice leading up to Sunday's game. Jones, drafted 15th overall in 2021, made a Pro Bowl appearance as a rookie. However, he has seen a decline in performance this season. In the Patriots' first 10 games, Jones has thrown for 2,031 yards with 10 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He was benched in consecutive weeks against the Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints, both of which resulted in losses of over 30 points.

Zappe, a fourth-round draft pick in 2022, has seen limited action in three games this season, passing for 104 yards and an interception. He recorded two wins as a starter last season when Jones was sidelined with an injury. While Zappe struggled during the preseason, he was signed to the Patriots' practice squad after being released on August 29 and later promoted to the 53-man roster on September 9.

In a recent game against the Indianapolis Colts in Germany, Zappe replaced Jones in the final two minutes, with the Patriots trailing 10-6. Though he converted a crucial fourth down, Zappe's fake spike attempt resulted in an interception as he threw into triple coverage.

Alternatively, the Patriots have another potential option at quarterback in rookie Malik Cunningham. Currently on the team's practice squad, Cunningham made an appearance in the Patriots' Week 6 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. Serving as the backup quarterback, he saw limited action as Jones played the majority of the game.

Cunningham, who joined the Patriots as an undrafted free agent from the University of Louisville, displayed versatility during the preseason, playing both quarterback and wide receiver. He showcased his athleticism with a touchdown run in the preseason opener against the Houston Texans. With 3 of 6 completed passes for 19 yards, 34 rushing yards, and a catch at receiver, Cunningham displayed potential.

Although Cunningham was initially cut by the Patriots on August 29, he was later re-signed to the practice squad on October 26 after clearing waivers. As the Patriots ponder their starting quarterback decision, the presence of Cunningham offers an additional option.

As game day approaches, the New England Patriots face a crucial decision regarding their starting quarterback. With the release of Will Grier, the battle for the starting position narrows between Mac Jones, Bailey Zappe, and the potential inclusion of rookie Malik Cunningham. The final decision will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the Patriots' performance against the New York Giants on Sunday.