The New England Patriots are still hoping quarterback Mac Jones can play on Sunday against the Detroit Lions.
The Patriots listed the quarterback as doubtful for Sunday’s contest. However, The Athletic’s Jeff Howe had some intel in a recent column that could suggest otherwise.
Jones has been dealing with a high ankle sprain since New England’s loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Rookie quarterback Bailey Zappe stepped in last Sunday, following the injury to backup quarterback Brian Hoyer.
Zappe is still expected to start Sunday, according to Howe. However, Jones has been making progress. He was on the practice field with New England this week, but he was limited during the course of the practice. There is a small chance he could return on Sunday.
Howe wrote:
“While rookie quarterback Bailey Zappe is expected to be in line for his first career start, the Patriots are holding out hope that Mac Jones might actually be able to return Sunday against the Lions.
“Jones is listed as doubtful, a reflection of the player and team wanting to see how he feels Saturday as he continues to respond well to treatment, a source told The Athletic’s Jeff Howe.”
New England will need a spark from the quarterback position, regardless of who is under center. The Patriots are looking to avoid a three-game losing streak, as they take on a Lions team hungry for a win of their own.