Mac Jones discusses Patriots future after latest benching

Quarterback Mac Jones remains committed to finding success with the New England Patriots even though his future is up in the air following Sunday's benching in a 10-7 loss at the New York Giants.

"I really wanna be the quarterback here," Jones said during a Monday appearance on the WEEI "Jones & Mego With Arcand" program, per Lauren Campbell of MassLive. "I’ve always wanted to be a quarterback in the NFL, and specifically for the Patriots. Like I said, I’ve got a lot of room to grow, and I’m gonna just continue to work hard and do all the things I can to put myself in a position to have success." 

Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has now pulled Jones from four of 11 games this season, and it's possible backup Bailey Zappe will start when 2-9 New England hosts the 4-7 Los Angeles Chargers this coming Sunday. ESPN stats show that Jones entered Monday evening ranked 28th in the NFL among qualified players with a 36.6 adjusted QBR and 30th with an average of 6.1 yards per pass attempt on the campaign. Across fewer than 11 total games this season, Jones threw 10 touchdown passes and 12 interceptions. 

"I’m going to focus on the process this week," Jones said regarding his status for the Chargers contest. "Focus on competing and getting better. That’s all I’ve ever done at every sport. I know that if I do that, we’ll be in good hands. That’s something I need to focus on as always. I do have confidence in myself, and I have confidence in the guys around me." 

There is no reason to believe the Patriots will exercise the fifth-year option for 2025 attached to Jones' rookie contract next spring, and it's thought the club could use a high pick in the 2024 draft to grab a prospect such as North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye. Ahead of "Monday Night Football," New England held the rights for the third selection in next year's draft.