'We'll look at everything': End clearly near for Mac Jones era with Patriots
Mac Jones will continue to be a Patriot for at least the remainder of the season, but it's clear the quarterback's time is nearly over in New England.
On Sunday, the Patriots pulled Jones from a 10-6 loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Germany after another poor showing from the 2021 first-round selection. Jones accounted for only 170 yards passing and tossed one interception before the Patriots turned to backup Bailey Zappe with less than two minutes left.
On Monday, head coach Bill Belichick hinted at a more prolonged change at QB.
Jones, a Pro Bowler in his rookie season, has regressed over the past two years, with that regression hitting hyperdrive over his past seven games. Since Week 4, Jones is second in the NFL with eight interceptions while his five passing touchdowns rank just 25th. Over that span, the Patriots have gone 1-6, and Jones has failed to eclipse 200 yards passing in all but two games.
Clearly, the Patriots don't have a quarterback they have faith in. That's because they've turned back to Jones despite pulling him in multiple contests. Zappe — who has completed just 40% of his 25 attempts this season — isn't the answer either. Will Grier or Malik Cunningham might bring more excitement to the position for the short term, but neither is considered a long-term quarterback.
Belichick and Jones may be on borrowed time in New England. With an AFC-worst 2-8 record, the Patriots and Belichick appear destined for divorce this offseason, which would mean a new coach and probably a new GM in New England in 2024.
Will a new starting quarterback quickly follow?
Projected to select within the top five of April's NFL Draft, the Patriots would be committing football malpractice if they did not at least seriously consider drafting Jones' replacement in the first round.
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