Mac Jones declines Brian Burns' request for apology

Mac Jones won't apologize for an ugly tackle he felt was fair. Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Patriots QB Mac Jones declines Panthers DE Brian Burns' request for apology

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 11/10/21

New England Patriots rookie quarterback Mac Jones insisted earlier this week he believed Carolina Panthers defensive end Brian Burns had possession of the football as the signal-caller twisted Burns' ankle in a presumed attempt to make a tackle during this past Sunday's game between the teams that New England won 24-6.

Burns isn't buying what Jones is selling and told reporters Wednesday he'd like to have an apology from the first-year pro but also realizes no such statement is coming:

#Panthers pass-rusher Brian Burns says it would be nice if Mac Jones apologized for grabbing his ankle on Sunday, but he doesn’t expect it to happen. “I would just like to play them again. I wish all my fellow D-end brothers happy hunting.” pic.twitter.com/V3iQc8YBJY
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 10, 2021

As Michael David Smith noted for Pro Football Talk, Burns was correct with his assumption.

"I already addressed that situation," Jones said about the matter later in the day. "I’m just looking forward to playing in this game with the guys we have on our team this week, so we’re already kind of moving forward."

Jones could ultimately face a fine but no suspension if the NFL deems his actions to be "dirty," in the words of Panthers linebacker Haason Reddick. Meanwhile, Burns offered a humorous touch during his Wednesday comments.

"I would just like to play them again," Burns said. "And I wish all my fellow D-end brothers happy hunting."

The Patriots host a Cleveland Browns side this Sunday that features All-Pro pass-rusher Myles Garrett, who currently leads the NFL in sacks (12.0), per ESPN stats. It's safe to say Burns will be one of Garrett's biggest fans, if only for a few hours.

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