Mac Jones set franchise records as a rookie quarterback in 2021 for the New England Patriots.
He got selected at No. 15 overall in the NFL Draft and led the Patriots to the playoffs. Jones is focused on building off a good campaign, and he’s excelled in the offseason. He has dropped weight, trimmed up, and looks stronger. As a native of Jacksonville, Fla., Jones pushed Alabama football to an undefeated national championship in 2020. He’s been working with Tom House, Tom Brady’s throwing coach, and building more chemistry with his receivers. Jones will not have Josh McDaniels calling plays as he’s now the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. It is a big change, but he went through three offensive coordinators in Tuscaloosa.
Jones had Brian Daboll in 2017, Michael Locksley in 2018, and Steve Sarkisian for 2019 and 2020. During the first week of organized team activities or OTAs, Patriots’ wide receiver Kendrick Bourne praised Jones’ work habits.
RELATED: Mac Jones has been working with Tom Brady’s throwing coach Tom House
“He’s in the best shape of his life,” Bourne said to NBC Sports in Boston about Jones. “I think he’s been here all offseason with (strength and conditioning coach) Moses (Cabrera). He looks really good. His stomach is gone, and he looks really good. He’s definitely a pro’s pro now.”
Bourne doubled down on his comments by discussing the connection Jones has with the team.
“Anytime I’m able to walk out on this grass…it’s a blessing.”
Patriots players react to the first day of OTAs. pic.twitter.com/mgYh8sNldh
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) May 23, 2022
*Kendrick Bourne talks about Mac Jones at the 0:43 mark of the clip
“He just knows how to connect with everyone,” Bourne said. “Our connection has gotten better. We are closer, and he knows he can yell at me or whatever he needs me to do. I’m that type. I just want to do everything perfect and be right every single play. If he can push me and it’s an open relationship, it will be better.”
Jones loves to have fun, but he’s also been a fiery personality since high school. He enjoys competing to be the best version of himself and proves critics wrong. Jones is excited about taking a nice jump in his sophomore season with the Patriots.
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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.
