It sounds like quarterback Mac Jones is preparing as if he’ll remain with the New England Patriots through what’s been an interesting offseason.
“Yeah I think 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 volunteer event, as shared by the CBS News Boston website. “We’ve got a great group of guys, and it’s all about how you come together as a team—players, coaches, everybody.”
Jones repeated what was said in a previous story and noted he’s excited to work with new offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien once New England’s offseason program gets underway this coming Monday.
“And it’s gonna be a great year, we’ve just gotta put the work in,” Jones added.
Jones had been the subject of numerous and conflicting trade rumors even before Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio reported last week that head coach Bill Belichick “shopped” the 2021 first-round draft pick this offseason. While there is currently no indication that Jones is going anywhere before this year’s draft gets underway on April 27, it is believed he will have to compete with 2022 rookie Bailey Zappe for the starting job this summer.
Zappe has made it known he is “going to take full advantage” of any opportunity he receives to climb to the top of the depth chart. Jones focused on other matters during his latest outing.
“It’s been good. I think it’s important to just evaluate everything,” Jones said about the last few months. “Obviously, a day like today, it takes your mind off football and you get to enjoy the kids. But I’ve definitely been giving it a lot, just like every year, and just super excited to get back with the guys here soon and get to work.”
Patriots linebacker Josh Uche recently referred to Jones as “our quarterback.” It remains to be seen if Belichick feels the same about the 24-year-old.
