Patriots QB Mac Jones Responds to Offseason Trade Rumors
FOXBORO -- As several fans and analysts throughout the region continue to question his status with the franchise, New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones is clearly focused on moving forward into 2023.
With the first phase of Patriots offseason workouts scheduled to begin on Monday at Gillette Stadium, Jones sounds ready to get to work.
“We’re all excited for this next year, and it just starts with putting your head down and going to work,” Jones told WBZ-TV’s Steve Burton during a Wednesday appearance at the Boys and Girls Club of Brockton. “We’ve got a great group of guys, and it’s all about how you come together as a team — players, coaches, everybody."
Throughout the week, Jones has been joined by fellow quarterback Bailey Zappe, tight end Mike Gesicki and wide receivers Tyquan Thornton and DeVante Parker at the South Walpole Community Athletic Complex for informal throwing sessions. Accordingly, their collaborative efforts have helped to change the team's central narrative from one of controversy to camaraderie.
Jones' words continue to be indicative of his commitment to improving for the upcoming season. He has been described as a “daily presence” at Gillette Stadium, using team facilities to train and throw. He has also enlisted the help of former NFL quarterback Nic Shimonek in adopting an improved physical and mental preparation regimen.
Despite entering the season on the heels of an impressive rookie campaign, Jones struggled to rekindle his previous success in 2022. In addition to missing three games due to a high ankle sprain, the 24-year-old was seemingly unable to find comfort under the direction of offensive play caller Matt Patricia and quarterbacks coach Joe Judge. Unsurprisingly, Jones ranked in the bottom 10 of NFL quarterbacks in terms of completion percentage and positive plays when pressured. He ultimately finished the season having competed 288 passes for 2,997 yards, 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
However, the hiring of new offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien has apparently rejuvenated Jones' resolve. In fact, he told Burton that their working together may lead to big things on the field this season.
“I’m excited to work with Bill [O’Brien], and I know we all are," Jones said. "It’s going to be a great year. We’ve just going to put the work in.”
During his time at Alabama, Jones was quite proficient at running the type of offense for which O'Brien is renowned. With a strong supporting cast of playmakers around him, Jones was able to create plays by leading his receivers under the defense, releasing the ball quickly and delivering it accurately. This gave his playmakers the space they needed to secure the football and gain notable yards after the catch. Not only did it put points on the board, but it also helped to keep the quarterback ahead of the blitz and out of duress.
While Jones is undoubtedly optimistic about New England's chances of surprising the masses in 2023, he remains grounded by the roots he continues to lay down throughout the community.
Jones' visits to local chapters of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America throughout New England never cease to elicit a bright smile from the Pats third-year quarterback. Both he and his girlfriend Sophie Scott, were named honorary members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South on Wednesday, in honor of their third visit to the area locations.
In March 2022, Jones made his first appearance at the Boys & Girls Club of Brockton, providing gifts, footballs as well as a check for $100,000 to help further the organization’s efforts to aid the area’s youth. He also visited the Gerald and Darlene Jordan Club in Chelsea in November to announce that he had chosen the organization as his dedication for the NFL's My Cause, My Cleats initiative.
“Obviously a day like today takes your mind off football, and you get to enjoy the kids," Jones said with a grin. "I look at role models that I had and hopefully I can be that for some people here today. I’m sure some people were here last year, and you get to see them grow a little bit, and it’s just cool to see kids turning into young adults. So, I’m excited to see the kids, and just tell them to have fun and enjoy everything and focus on school and doing the right things and everything will work out.”
Though such visits continue to warm his heart, Jones offered one final reminder that his focus remains on football. In spite of the effort, he has already exhibited, the most strenuous toils are about to begin.
"I’ve definitely been giving it a lot, just like every year," Jones said. "Just super excited to get back with the guys here soon, and get to work.”
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