Patriots: Mac Jones responds to New England being landing spot in 2021 NFL Draft
By Mike Luciano
The New England Patriots have been linked to several top quarterback prospects over the course of the 2021 NFL Draft cycle since Cam Newton’s one-year stint is all fans will be seeing of the former MVP.
Given the Patriots’ draft position, Bill Belichick’s penchant for going after SEC players, and his connection to Nick Saban, Alabama quarterback Mac Jones might end up in New England once April rolls around.
Jones likes the idea of potentially playing in New England, adding that while he talked to nearly every NFL team at the Senior Bowl, he hopes that he left a good impression on Belichick.
Alabama QB Mac Jones is a first round prospect. @PSchrags suggests New England as the perfect landing spot.
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) February 2, 2021
His response: pic.twitter.com/5ujZlseehU
Mac Jones’ accuracy and production could get him drafted in the first round by the Patriots
Jones‘ biggest strength is his accuracy. His 77% completion percentage is simply astonishing. While he threw for 41 touchdowns in an offense that forced him to go deep frequently, he only threw four interceptions, a testament to his quality decision making and ability to quickly progress through his reads. He helped keep the Tide’s offense running smoothly as they cruised to a national championship in 2020.
There are some criticisms of Jones’ style of play, however, starting with his lack of athletic ability for the position. In a league where quarterbacks are more mobile than ever, Jones could struggle in that regard. Much like Tua Tagovailoa in 2020, some critics are wondering if his gaudy production is due to his skills as a passer or the fact he is playing with a tremendous offensive coaching staff and the best collection of skill position talent in the country, including Najee Harris, Devonta Smith, and Jaylen Waddle.
Jones’ style of play might not be what everyone wants out of their quarterbacks now, but it’s hard to find guys with his level of production in the SEC. Even if he has to wait a year, Jones becoming the starting quarterback of the future in New England remains a very real possibility.
