It’s possible that Mac Jones has played his last game with the Patriots. Despite being a highly sought-after first-round pick in 2021 to usher in the post-Tom Brady era, Jones hasn’t quite met the initial expectations. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, other teams are interested in acquiring Jones as the Patriots begin their first season under head coach Jerod Mayo.
Despite making a Pro Bowl appearance and being a runner-up for Offensive Rookie of the Year, Jones could be on the trade block as he enters the final year of his rookie contract. NFL.com reported that the Patriots are open to trade discussions involving Jones, following comments from offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt suggesting the team is exploring all options.
Jones struggled during the Patriots’ tough 2023 season, where he was benched four times and had a 2-9 record as a starter. He threw 10 touchdowns and 12 interceptions with a career-low completion rate of 64.9%.
With the Patriots having the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and quarterback Bailey Zappe on the roster, they have options. Zappe, a fourth-round pick in 2022, is under contract until 2025 and will become a restricted free agent after that. In 2023, Zappe started six games, appearing in 10, throwing six touchdowns and nine interceptions for 1,272 yards. The Patriots won two of the games Zappe started, finishing the tumultuous season 4-13 with a loss to the Jets, marking the end of Belichick’s tenure with the team.
