WATCH: Patriots QB Mac Jones Connects with Tyquan Thornton in OTAs
OTAs are in full swing for the New England Patriots, with mini-camp around the corner followed by the transition into training camp. Back on the practice field, so far the noise around a potential Mac Jones trade has simmered while the positive reviews are starting to come in.
A video posted by the Patriots only helps keep positivity and excitement in the air surrounding Jones and the new offense, which new coordinator Bill O'Brien is leading. The highlight from OTAs was Jones finding second-year wide receiver Tyquan Thornton on a deep ball.
It was reportedly the longest play of the day for the Patriots' offense, as Jones and Thornton were able to show off their chemistry.
This isn't the first time that Jones has practiced with Thornton, as the pairing worked out together earlier in the offseason along with Bailey Zappe. Thornton, the former second-round pick, showed flashes as a rookie totaling 247 yards and two touchdowns on 22 receptions in 13 games. Yet, it wasn't the type of production the Patriots hoped for.
Now, that isn't a knock on Thornton. That statement can be said of the entire offense last season, but it shows room to grow. Both Jones and Thornton have something to prove following a disastrous 2022 season.
Jones wants to prove that he wasn't the problem last season and can return to playing as he did as a rookie. At the same time, Thornton is competing with the other receivers taken in last year's draft class to show that the Patriots didn't make a mistake in passing on a guy like George Pickens.
At a time when the Patriots are reportedly interested in signing DeAndre Hopkins, Thornton is getting every chance to prove himself as a viable weapon in the passing game.
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