6 possible landing spots for Mac Jones in 2024
Speculation surrounding the future of Mac Jones is in high gear this offseason, and as free agency and the draft near, it will likely become the main topic of conversation involving the Patriots.
Unfortunately for the young quarterback, his fate has been debated since the lead-up to last season's trade deadline due to his declining performance and contributions to many of the Patriots' losses. Although he remained with the team for the rest of the year, Jones was ultimately benched for the latter half and was presumed to be atop the list of cut candidates this offseason.
That hasn't happened yet, but recent reports suggest the new Patriots staff have already decided they want to trade him before the 2024 season, as they have their eyes set on drafting a rookie and potentially adding a veteran in free agency.
If that is Jones's fate, a handful of teams could be potential landing spots for him to start fresh with a team that believes in his abilities.
Los Angeles Rams
Well before the idea of trading Mac Jones became a central conversation involving the Patriots, many felt he was a great candidate to head out west and work with Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams. The system the young coach runs, and his work with quarterbacks has felt like an intriguing place for Jones to revamp his career and potentially work his way to succeed Matthew Stafford, whenever that may be.
McVay has proven not to fear taking risks with quarterbacks who need that at some point in their careers, as seen with Baker Mayfield and Carson Wentz. You could almost argue that even trading for Stafford was a risky move.
Fortunately, it worked in his favor since Stafford helped lead the Rams to a Super Bowl win a few years ago. But it's clear he's past his prime, and the Rams don't have a long-term solution at quarterback if his performance becomes a liability.
Trading for Jones, who shouldn't cost them much in draft capital, would benefit both the team and the player. The Rams would get a prospect needing a confidence boost and polishing from their top-grade staff, while Jones would be surrounded by a team that wants him in their building, and he could learn from a guy like Stafford while working to become a starter again.