Mac Jones is used to performing under pressure in front of rowdy and enthusiastic crowds at Gillette Stadium. However, last season saw his fan base turn on him because of his inconsistent play on the field.
The fan base may be in for a treat this year.
New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones reportedly has renewed energy with Bill O’Brien taking over the offensive coaching reins.
After the departure of Josh McDaniels, who became the Raiders’ head coach, Bill Belichick decided to hand the offensive play-calling duties to Matt Patricia. That would end up being a terrible idea as Jones would regress and the team would miss out on the postseason.
Jones’ performance in his second season left much to be desired, and many expected his rookie backup to take his job when he returned from injury. As a result, the uncertainty about his place on the squad became a point of discussion for the rest of the year and continues to be a source of contention to this day. However, the newest news from the Patriots’ OTAs looks to put much of it to rest, at least for the time being.
NFL Network’s Mike Giardi revealed that the embattled quarterback has been receiving a ton of praise this spring, and especially from those who have been around him the longest.
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“Confident. Leading like we know he can,” one team source said of Jones, per Giardi.
“Ready to remind you (media/fans) why he was a playoff QB in year one,” said another.
It is a much-needed review for not only Jones, but also the Patriots, following the shambles of the 2022 offseason that lasted the whole 18-week regular season. Furthermore, O’Brien’s hire appears to have restored optimism to the club, which was visibly lacking last year.
Belichick hasn’t announced a clear starter for the upcoming season, but if Jones continues on his current path, he’ll likely reclaim his QB1 spot for sure.