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New England Patriots Finalizing Trade of Mac Jones to Jacksonville Jaguars
The New England Patriots are in the process of finalizing a deal to trade quarterback Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to sources within the league. The trade, which involves a sixth-round draft pick as compensation, cannot be completed until the new league year commences on Wednesday and Jones successfully completes a physical examination.
Jones to Join Hometown Team as Backup
Mac Jones, who hails from Jacksonville, will be joining his hometown team as a backup to Trevor Lawrence, the first overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft. Jones was selected 15th overall in the 2021 draft and is expected to compete with C.J. Beathard for the role of Lawrence’s primary backup.
Beathard, who recently signed a two-year, $4.5 million contract with the Jaguars, started only one game in his three seasons with the team. In that game, he completed 17 of 24 passes for 178 yards, leading the Jaguars to a 26-0 victory over the Carolina Panthers in Week 17 of the previous season.
Jones’ Tenure with the Patriots
Mac Jones began his NFL career with the New England Patriots on a promising note, earning a Pro Bowl selection as an alternate in his rookie season. He started all 17 regular-season games as the Patriots secured a playoff berth, ultimately falling to the Buffalo Bills in the wild-card round.
However, Jones’ production dipped in the following two seasons, coinciding with changes in coaching staff and personnel. The departure of offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and subsequent adjustments to the coaching structure impacted Jones’ development on the field.
Despite efforts to revitalize Jones’ performance in the 2023 season, his struggles persisted, prompting Patriots head coach Bill Belichick to bench him in favor of Bailey Zappe after 11 games. Jones finished the season with 2,120 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.
Future Prospects for the Patriots
With the trade of Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the New England Patriots now have Bailey Zappe and Nathan Rourke on their quarterback depth chart. The acquisition of an additional sixth-round pick in exchange for Jones provides the Patriots with eight total selections in the upcoming draft.
ESPN’s Michael DiRocco contributed to the coverage of this developing story.
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