Mac Jones proved that he belongs with the New England Patriots as the starting quarterback for the foreseeable future.
The No. 15 overall pick beat out Cam Newton for the role and he led a franchise with high expectations to 10 wins and a playoff berth. The pressure of Tom Brady’s unprecedented success alone was enough to make quarterbacks crumble — but, Jones had the right mentality and he continued to show growth.
He finished the year throwing for 3,801 yards, 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions — with a 68 completion percentage. Jones’ teammates have raved about his leadership and ability to see the football field the entire season.
Pro Football Focus’ Doug Kyed has a close source inside the organization that confirmed the overall belief in Jones, saying he’s “well-liked and trusted.”
“Players want to continue working and building with him,” Kyed wrote.
Longtime Patriot and team captain Matthew Slater summed up the respect that Jones has in the locker room perfectly.
“I know my kids and I will watch be watching him a long time to come,” Slater said. “It’s certainly been an honor for me to play alongside him and see him grow over the course of the year. Patriots Nation — they should be excited about having No. 10 as a quarterback.”
