Patriots Devin McCourty Supports Mac Jones: New England ‘Future’
FOXBORO — Throughout the past several months, the mannerisms of New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones have been called into question.
From the opinions of past Patriots to media speculation on his “strained” relationship with coach Bill Belichick, everyone seems to have an opinion on Jones’ second season as the Pats’ starter.
However, only a select few, with whom Jones shares the Patriots locker room have a first-hand, truly informed perspective to share on the subject — one of which spoke out on Monday in favor of the 24-year-old Alabama product as he prepares to enter his third season with the franchise.
During an appearance on NFL Media’s Good Morning Football, Patriots team captain Devin McCourty provided a ringing endorsement of Jones, hailing him as New England’s franchise quarterback.
“I’m excited for Mac,” McCourty exclaimed. “I think sky’s the limit. I think he’s the future of New England. Any doubts, I think you’re wrong if you don’t think he’s the future. He’s in that building right now doing different things — working with guys, talking to guys. That’s what he wants. He wants to be that quarterback.”
A notable section of fans and media alike have had a field day in criticizing Jones in terms of arm strength, leadership skills and even his desire to excel. Throughout last season, Jones displayed notable discomfort in New England's new offensive system under the direction of offensive play-caller Matt Patricia and quarterback coach Joe Judge. At times, the disconnect between the players and the coaching staff was so overt that Jones was observed hurling expletive-laden frustrations, believed to be in the direction of his coaches.
Allegedly, Jones’ sideline outbursts caused friction between he, his teammates and his coaches — including Belichick.
Still, those in a credible position to offer an informed opinion on Jones’ work ethic continue to laud him as a player who has earned the respect of his teammates in short order.
Since being drafted by New England in the first round (15 overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft, Jones has been taking the proper steps to improve both physically and mentally. Last offseason, he not only sought out measures to increase his velocity, but also methods to build upon his accuracy in various spots on the field. Those preparations involved his working with noted quarterback optimization expert Tom House, and adopting a healthier diet and sleep regimen.
This year, he has been observed working with former NFL quarterback — turned sports performance coach — Nic Shimonek, to improve his strength and conditioning.
As for the narrative of Jones irritating other members of the Pats roster with his behavior, McCourty quickly cooled the coals of controversy.
For those who will be quick to dismiss McCourty’s opinion, he knows that of which he speaks. Since being drafted in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft, McCourty has been one of the Pats most prolific on-field defenders, as well as one of its most respected leaders in the locker room.
Throughout his career, McCourty has appeared in a combined 229 regular season and playoff games as a member of the Patriots. He has become a three-time Super Bowl champion, as well as being voted to two Pro Bowls, three All-Pro teams and the Patriots’ Team of the 2010s.
Moreover, McCourty has played alongside some of the franchise’s greatest leaders — from quarterback Tom Brady to linebacker Tedy Bruschi to current teammate and special teams captain Matthew Slater. He has tangible experience in working with those who lead by example.
As he contemplates his own future in pro football, McCourty still offers passionate opinions on the only franchise for which he has played. When declaring Jones as the “future” of the franchise, he is neither thinking, nor speculating. He is certainly not pushing a mandated agenda of stirring controversy.
Instead, he sees the team’s initial improvements as methods of helping to develop Jones into the quarterback Pats fans hope he will become.
“They know the future is Mac Jones, and I’m excited for this guy this year because now you get Billy O’Brien coming in as an offensive coordinator. Great success. Has done well everywhere he’s been offensively. He gets to come in and now work with Mac.”
O’Brien, is known for employing an offensive scheme which features ball protection, efficient running and spreading the ball to multiple pass catchers. Jones remains the best steward for this offense. He has proven his ability to create plays by leading his receivers under the defense, releasing the ball quickly and delivering it accurately.
In theory, this will give his playmakers the space they needed to catch and run with the football. Not only will it put points on the board, it will also help to keep him ahead of the blitz and out of duress.
If Jones is able to thrive under O’Brien, he will establish himself as “the guy” in New England for many years to come.
In the process, he will prove the doubters wrong … and McCourty right.
Follow Mike D’Abate on Twitter @mdabateNFL and Listen/Subscribe to his daily podcast: Locked On Patriots
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