He told reporters he will be ready when his time comes.
Mac Jones’ time for the New England Patriots may come in week one. His performances have been steady throughout NFL Preseason, but his best moment came in Sunday’s game versus the New York Giants. Jones replaced Cam Newton in the third quarter, and the Patriots trailed 6-7. The 15th overall pick took the team on a 75-yard touchdown drive in six plays. He connected with wide receiver Isaiah Zuber for a 17-yard score. Jones’ first touchdown of preseason gave New England a 12-7 advantage.
Mac Jones gets his first preseason TD pass 🔥
(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/fboC9We6g4
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) August 30, 2021
Mac Jones throwing people open like a vet. 😳 pic.twitter.com/L6pB0ER7qs
— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) August 29, 2021
He would then guide the Patriots on a 50-yard scoring drive in four plays. New England cashed in with another touchdown, and this had the teammates jumping on Jones on the sidelines. The former Alabama quarterback wants to improve in not holding the ball too long (sacked four times), but he compiled a passer rating of 131.8. Jones completed 10 of 14 passes, including four completions that went for first downs. He totaled 156 passing yards and assisted the team to a 22-20 win over the Giants.
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When it appeared as though receivers were covered, Jones threw guys open with accuracy. Bill Belichick will not state who starts in the regular season, but Jones has a strong case. During three preseason games, Jones has led seven scoring drives — including five touchdown drives. He has performed well since being drafted, and all within the organization are impressed with him.
We shall see what happens moving forward.
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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 “watch” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.