One of the first things learned by anyone getting into the world of journalism is always to make sure you check your sources. But sometimes, even at the outlets that are considered to be the most respected, this doesn’t happen.
And earlier this week there was a glaring disregard for any sort of vetting by Boston Globe reporter Ben Volin who was fooled by a Barstool Sports fan (better known as a “Stoolie”) into reporting a false story on Patriots quarterback Mac Jones.
Volin appeared on The Greg Hill Show and shared that he heard “from someone that would know” that Jones has an obvious attitude problem in the building.
Here's a bit more from our conversation with @BenVolin and sharing that "someone that would know" messaged him directly about the Patriots unhappiness with Mac Jones attitude. #Patriots #ForeverNE pic.twitter.com/3rQzZbgTqj
— The Greg Hill Show (@TheGregHillShow) October 19, 2022
Although Volin said it shouldn’t be considered a report, he still felt the need to share this information live on the radio for all of New England to hear.
Interesting.
Later on, the Stoolie reached out to one of Barstool’s employees providing the direct messages on Twitter which led to Volin sharing the news on the radio. Barstool ended up setting things straight by releasing the messages on its website.
When taking a closer look at the fake messages, Volin decided to roll with the report from a fake source who didn’t claim to know a player or member of the front office but some who sold ticket packages for the team.
Yeah I did. I made it up to see if he was really this stupid and I cannot believe he ran with it. pic.twitter.com/uMK8UjCCkH
— Nolan (@nolanc79) October 19, 2022
This isn’t the first time Volin has received pushback for being critical of Jones’ character.
A day prior to his radio appearance, Volin said during a television spot on NBC Sports Boston that the play of backup quarterback Bailey Zappe is rightfully humbling Jones for he believed that making the Pro Bowl last season as a rookie went to his head.
Mass Live’s Chris Mason, a fellow Patriots reporter, pushed back on Volin’s statements.
I haven’t gotten this sense from anybody in the building.
Jones’ teammates rave about his work ethic. He’s (legitimately) the first one to the facility more often than not.
He came to camp in far better shape, organized FLA throwing sessions, etc. Clearly didn’t take it easy. https://t.co/fLhtqKmfEt
— Chris Mason (@ByChrisMason) October 18, 2022
On Thursday, Volin acknowledged his mistake with a post on social media stating that he appreciated the feedback and that it wouldn’t happen again.
Hey everybody, just want to acknowledge that I made a mistake Wednesday on @WEEI. I should have not spoken of the DM without vetting it first. No excuses, It won’t happen again. I appreciate the feedback and comments I’ve received.
— Ben Volin (@BenVolin) October 20, 2022
Through it all, Jones is expected to make his return from injury on Monday Night Football against the Chicago Bears.
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