New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones. Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

ESPN statement says Mac Jones' 'Monday Night Football' interception didn't hit 'SkyCam' wiring

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 10/26/22

ESPN has seen the much-analyzed video of New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones' interception from the team's Week 8 "Monday Night Football" contest against the Chicago Bears.

Despite plenty of theories floating around on social media, claiming that the wiring from the "SkyCam" used by "The Worldwide Leader in Sports" perhaps interfered with Jones' pass, and could've even led to the interception, ESPN has released a statement to deny the notion.

ESPN statement: “This pass from Mac Jones did not hit ESPN’s SkyCam wiring. This video creates a false impression, but in reality the SkyCam wire was more than 15 feet above the ball and our SkyCam system followed all NFL protocols.” https://t.co/vKMpQp4xOz
— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) October 26, 2022

Jones made his return to action on Monday for the first time since suffering a high-ankle sprain in Week 3 and finished the Patriots' loss 3-for-6 for 13 yards and one interception. The 2021 Pro Bowler was replaced by rookie Bailey Zappe after three offensive possessions, with the interception being Jones' final play of the night.

Head coach Bill Belichick claimed afterward that the timing of the quarterback change (which was pre-planned according to the 70-year-old) wasn't related to Jones' pick, however. Zappe (and other New England players) have said that they weren't aware of when the quarterback switch was going to be made.

As of Wednesday morning, Belichick still hadn't revealed who the team's starting quarterback would be in Week 8. The Patriots will take on the New York Jets -- who have won four straight -- on the road at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.

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