Former Patriots WR Julian Edelman: There's going to be a lot of pressure on Mac Jones

One of the biggest questions entering the 2021 season is whether Cam Newton or Mac Jones will start at quarterback for the New England Patriots. 

Head coach Bill Belichick has been consistent in saying Newton will remain the starter, but pundits believe there's a real possibility for Jones to win the job.

During a recent appearance on PodcastOne's "Michael Irvin Podcast," former Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman provided some insight into the Newton vs. Jones debate, saying the Alabama product won't have it easy if he beats out Newton for the job. 

As transcribed by NESN's Zack Cox:

"He needs to have that eye," Edelman said. "He needs to have that confidence. … What are you going to do? This kid, it's not easy playing in New England, especially after Tom Brady, if he gets the opportunity and beats out the other guy. This ain't going to be easy. This town is tough. This town is mean. This town is blue-collar. Boston people, the New England people, they want winning. They're used to that in all sports. The kid's going to have a lot of pressure."

The Patriots selected Jones 15th overall in this year's draft, and he's the first signal-caller Belichick has ever taken in the first round. It'll take a lot for him to beat out Newton, but it's not impossible given how the former MVP played last season. 

New England has four quarterbacks on its roster after re-signing Brian Hoyer this week, so Newton won't be the only one Jones has to get through en route to NFL stardom.