Patriots quarterback Mac Jones may be an under-the-radar trade target for the Raiders.
“I don’t think that (New England) head coach Bill Belichick appreciated the way Mac handled some stuff last year,” Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer told WBZ-FM in Boston on Thursday. “I think they would consider (trading Jones).”
Rookie QB Bailey Zappe posted a better passer rating (100.9) in four games than Jones (84.8), who played in 14 games, possibly making him more expendable if the animosity with Belichick lingers.
Although Las Vegas appears to be a top trade destination for Aaron Rodgers, he hasn’t officially announced if he’s returning for an 18th season.
The Raiders could pursue free-agent Jimmy Garoppolo. He’s recovering from a broken foot and has high market value, a four-year deal worth $34.9M annually, per Spotrac.
Raiders HC Josh McDaniels served as New England OC during Jones’ rookie season, and they clicked. The Patriots made the playoffs, while Jones made the 2021 All-Rookie team and Pro Bowl.
“Josh is a great coach. He expects a lot out of his players and is a smart guy,” Jones told WEEI-FM’s “Jones & Mego with Arcand” in Boston before playing Las Vegas in Week 15 of the 2022 regular season.
McDaniels, who was the Patriots OC for 13 seasons, likes QBs who know his system. He tried to acquire former New England backup QB Matt Cassel while he was Denver HC from 2009-10.
Working with the 24-year-old QB again might tempt McDaniels.
