The unexpected development is that quarterback Mac Jones is about to return to his hometown of Jacksonville from the New England Patriots.
According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Patriots are in the final stages of a deal that would send Jones to the Jaguars in exchange for a sixth-round pick.
However, the trade cannot be officially processed until the new league year commences on Wednesday, pending Jones passing a physical examination. This potential move may not catch Patriots fans off guard, as despite making the Pro Bowl in his rookie season, Jones failed to solidify himself as the successor to the legendary Tom Brady.
Over three seasons in New England, the 15th overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft posted an 18-24 record, a below-average 44 QBR, and never surpassed 25 passing touchdowns in a single season.
The final blow came in 2023 when he was benched in favor of former fourth-round pick Bailey Zappe. With the third overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, the Patriots are poised to address their quarterback dilemma.
Patriots’ Draft Speculations
Speculations suggest they may target North Carolina’s Drake Maye, who is touted as the third-best QB in the class, according to NFL.com.
For the Jaguars, the move to acquire Jones makes strategic sense. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who led the league in turnovers last season, struggled with knee, ankle, and shoulder injuries.
Adding Jones as a backup provides insurance and depth, given his potential demonstrated early in his career, allowing him to step in if Lawrence’s durability becomes a pressing concern.
Jones’ impending departure marks the second quarterback from the 2021 NFL Draft’s top 15 picks to be traded, following Trey Lance’s move from the San Francisco 49ers to the Dallas Cowboys last offseason.
The collective performance of the quarterback class has fallen short of initial expectations, with Jones now becoming a pivotal figure in the ongoing quarterback carousel.
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