New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones could be disciplined and even suspended for a dirty play on Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Eli Apple amid an NFL review.
In 2021 during his rookie campaign, Jones was spared punishment after he appeared to purposely roll over Carolina Panthers defensive star Brian Burns’ ankle. Earlier this season, the former Alabama quarterback was embroiled in further controversy when he appeared to slide and kick out at Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker on two occasions.
It has meant Jones has developed a reputation as a dirty player - and the 24-year-old is back underfire following the 22-18 defeat to the Bengals on Saturday. After he threw an interception, Jones was chasing the play back as the Bengals appeared destined to score a touchdown before he appeared to take out his frustration on Apple off the ball.
As the Bengals run through for a touchdown, Jones can be seen slowing his run down before checking across and sliding into the path of Apple, who can do nothing but be tripped up by his opponent. Apple labelled the play ‘dirty’, while other past and current NFL players also spoke out against the play.
Amid an uproar online, Jones could now face punishment for the play. The NFL reportedly plans to review the incident and reach a decision this week, according to ProFootballTalk’s Mike Florio. Florio suggested a suspension is ‘unlikely’ but it is ultimately one of the multiple punishments on the table facing Jones.
It is unclear whether Jones intended to injure or hurt his opponent on Saturday or indeed in any of his run ins, but he is clearly toeing the line of what is legal on the field. In any event, he is beginning to forge an unwanted reputation.
Jones has also struggled in his sophomore season after impressing en route to the playoffs as a rookie. He has had to stave off competition from backup quarterback Bailey Zappe too, with plenty of Patriots fanbase clamouring for the rookie to replace Jones.
After reaching the playoffs in his rookie season, Jones has undoubtedly struggled this campaign and ranks 29th in the NFL in Expected Points Added/Completion Percentage Over Expected composite. Through 12 games in 2022, Jones has thrown for 2,550 yards, nine touchdowns and eight interceptions, while his passer rating has dropped eight points since last season to sit at 84.6.
Following their 22-18 loss to the Bengals on Sunday, the Patriots are now 7-8 and will likely miss out on the postseason for the second time in three years. The franchise are now desperate for a win as they host the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium on Sunday.
