He played a role in coaching Bryce Young to be the first Alabama quarterback to win the Heisman Trophy, but his return to the National Football League with the New England Patriots has been impressive.
Bill O’Brien has been the answer Mac Jones needed at offensive coordinator.
RELATED: Mac Jones dominates Packers in joint practice for Patriots
He endured much frustration with Matt Patricia and Joe Judge last season; however, O’Brien has rejuvenated him. Crimson Tide fans did not see a national championship with O’Brien calling plays, but they are happy to see him produce success with Jones.
The third-year quarterback has been steady in Patriots’ training camp.
RELATED: Mac Jones delivers “best practice” of Patriots training camp
He dominated Thursday’s joint practice against the Green Bay Packers, completed 14 of 17 passes. He connected with wide receivers DeVante Parker and Tyquan Thornton on deep passes, including a 45 to 50-yard touchdown to Parker. Mark Daniels, a New England reporter for Massachusetts Live, revealed one statistic on Twitter that showed O’Brien was the right hire for Jones.
Mac Jones in 2023 training camp (through 16 days)
11v11s: 168-of-218 (77%), 3 INT
Mac Jones in 2022 training camp (through 16 days)
11v11s: 146-of-220 (66%), 8 INT
— Mark Daniels (@ByMarkDaniels) August 17, 2023
Jones has completed 77 percent of his passes and tossed only three interceptions in 16 practices. He is showing the media he has the arm strength while protecting the ball and making explosive plays. The addition of O’Brien could have the Patriots returning to the NFL playoffs and make a deep run. Bill Belichick will have arguably the best defense in the league, so adding a confident Jones makes the offense interesting. It is starting to look like there is no quarterback competition in New England.
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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.
