Mac Jones is about to play in his second NFL preseason matchup for the New England Patriots.
His competition is Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, and the Philadelphia Eagles. Beat reporters for the Patriots have been impressed with Jones all offseason, but tonight’s game is a huge moment.
Bill Belichick named Cam Newton as the starter earlier in training camp; however, the rookie has outplayed him. After a good outing versus the Washington Football Team, Jones needs another strong performance to possibly supplant Newton as the Patriots’ No. 1 quarterback. New England will look for accuracy, timing, precision, confidence, and playmaking abilities from Jones.
Josh McDaniels wants to see him continue to operate the offense with clarity.
He did not have a touchdown in week one, so a touchdown drive tonight would bode well for Jones. Regardless of whether he scores or not, the big picture is Jones has a chance to grab the starting job. He is the succession plan New England had in mind after Tom Brady.
During joint practices against the Eagles, Jones tossed multiple touchdowns to wide receivers.
NFL Network is airing the Patriots/Eagles game at 6:30 pm CT.
RELATED: Mac Jones named CoSIDA Academic All-American for 2020 efforts at Alabama
Alabama fans will have their eyes on Jones.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
