The New England Patriots have had an array of quarterbacks since Tom Brady's departure in 2020. Cam Newton, Brian Hoyer, and Jarrett Stidham all saw snaps that season, but Mac Jones was ultimately selected 15th overall to play under center the following season.
Bailey Zappe would see action in 2023 and 2024, while Jacoby Brissett returned as a bridge option before Drake Maye eventually took over.
Of all the quarterbacks the Patriots brought in since Brady, Maye is clearly the most talented. There was a time, however, that Mac Jones appeared to be the answer in New England. His rookie season saw New England finish 10-7, and he finished second in OROY voting with 22 touchdowns.
Jones' career took a turn for the worse after a benching during his sophomore campaign, and he'd finish his New England career with just over 8,900 yards, with 47 total touchdowns and 37 total turnovers. He was 20-25 as a starter and lost his only playoff game 47-17 against the Buffalo Bills.
Mac Jones' fortunes have changed dramatically since his New England days
Jones was traded to Jacksonville for a late-round pick swap after his third season, but his subpar play continued there. He passed for 8 touchdowns and 8 interceptions, and it wasn't until last season that he found success again.
Last season for the 49ers, Jones threw for 13 touchdowns and 6 interceptions, leading the Niners to a 5-3 record in Brock Purdy's absence.
We've seen quarterbacks resurrect their careers as of late: Daniel Jones, Baker Mayfield, and most notably, Sam Darnold. Jones certainly could be a candidate to join this group with another strong season. The only issue? He remains the Niners' backup.
How does Mac Jones' recent contract restructure change things?
Last week, Jones restructured his contract with the 49ers. The former Alabama signal caller had a $300,000 roster bonus added to his contract, which raises his total potential contract value to $5.8 million for the season.
In actuality, this move isn't likely to change much for either party. Jones will become $300,000 richer come roster cutdown day, and it appears this move is to ensure he won't have any complaints being the backup.
At this point, there aren't many teams in need of a starting quarterback. The Steelers selected Drew Allar in the third round and will have Aaron Rodgers as the starter for one more year, while teams like the Falcons and Vikings added insurance to their QB rooms that feature struggling young starters.
The best move for both parties was likely a restructuring. Jones is compensated for his role as a high-end backup, while the Niners ensure they'll have success should Purdy sustain another injury.
While Jones wasn't able to secure a starting job this time around, don't be surprised to see a midseason trade or significant contract handed out to him in free agency a year from now.
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