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Patriots QB Mac Jones wasn't surprised to win starting job over Cam Newton

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 9/7/21

The New England Patriots stunned many on the final day of August by parting ways with veteran quarterback and 2015 NFL Most Valuable Player Cam Newton, a decision that awarded rookie and first-round draft pick Mac Jones the starting job.

According to Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston, Jones explained during a Tuesday appearance on local sports radio station WEEI that he wasn't surprised to be named QB1 ahead of Sunday's regular-season opener against the Miami Dolphins.

Was Mac Jones surprised he was named the starter?

"Not really. Like I always say, I prepare to be the starter... Nothing really changes. Just try to be a good teammate." https://t.co/Hop6mU6GkG
— Phil Perry (@PhilAPerry) September 7, 2021

Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said earlier in the day that he had "nothing but positive thoughts and feelings for Cam," and Jones added Newton was "obviously a really good mentor to me" during the spring and summer months.

On Cam Newton, Jones says he was "obviously a really good mentor to me." Adds they'll stay in touch.

"I never felt like we were butting heads or anything like that. Obviously Cam's a great guy and a great player, and hopefully he lands somewhere." https://t.co/Hop6mU6GkG
— Phil Perry (@PhilAPerry) September 7, 2021

"The label is the label but you gotta go out there and produce," Jones said about earning the title of New England starting signal-caller. "That's what it comes down to."

Former Patriots linebacker Rob Ninkovich recently generated buzz when he suggested Jones was helping Newton learn the offense through New England's preseason finale last month. While such rumors could explain why Newton remains a free agent heading into Week 1, they also imply Jones will be at least mentally prepared to face live defenses in meaningful games right out of the gates.

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