Jakobi Meyers and Mac Jones formed a unique bond during the 2021 season in ways that perhaps only Hunter Henry could compare. Jones found Meyers for 83 receptions, 866 yards and two touchdowns. Though Meyers wasn’t a natural threat in the red area, he had 42 first downs, an impressive sum.
Things have been different in a few ways this offseason. Not only is the offense undergoing scheme and terminology changes, but the Patriots brought in a pair of new top-flight receivers (veteran DeVante Parker and rookie Tyquan Thornton). Even during an offseason of change, Jones has taken a large step forward. Meyers was asked for his thoughts on Jones’ command of the offense.
“You said taking control of the offense. That’s just a capital, Yes. Exclamation mark. Exclamation mark. What he see — we all kind of just try to catch up to what’s in his mind and his vision. I know he and the coaches have just been doing a good job of relaying information. Ultimately, when we’re out there, he tells us. We’re like, ‘How do want it? What do you want it to be and when do you want it to be there?’ And he’s been really adamant about what he says. He has a clear vision in his mind. It’s really easy to work with him.”
Jones’ progress has been notable during the organized team activities and minicamp. He had been impressive, with pinpoint passes and newfound confidence on the deep ball. Meyers has been limited in some of the sessions, but the slot receiver should benefit from the vertical revolution in the offense. Maybe Meyers won’t be running those vertical routes, but they should help him get open underneath,