Patriots' Mac Jones wearing protective brace on left knee

On the same day that New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton told reporters he hasn't yet been promised the starting job by head coach Bill Belichick, rookie signal-caller Mac Jones was seen sporting a protective brace on his left knee coming off last Thursday's impressive debut against the Washington Football Team. 

According to Zack Cox of NESN, however, Jones told reporters Monday there's nothing to worry about heading into this coming Thursday's exhibition matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. 

"I just wanted to try it out for protective reasons," Jones explained. "I think it’s a good idea as a quarterback just to have that on your left, front knee. So I’m going to give it a go and see how it feels. It’s pretty good. I’m getting a different one (Tuesday), just trying some different things."

Jones added that he feels "good" and hasn't experienced any type of setback. He completed 13 of 19 passes for 87 yards against Washington and should see plenty of snaps this Thursday as long as he's healthy.