Getty Image / Winslow Townson
OTA’s are wrapping up as mini camps are set to begin soon. With that in mind, it sounds like the New England Patriots are making progress this offseason.
Many believed New England may have a quarterback battle after Mac Jones struggled throughout most of the 2022 season.
Additionally, Bailey Zappe’s strong performances didn’t help the rumors circulating New England.
However, it sounds like a different tune is being hummed, as reports suggest Mac Jones is crushing it at the Patriots’ camp.
According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, “Mac Jones sure looks like he’s the Patriots’ starter.”
Breer goes on to report that Jones is basically the clear cut top option in New England. He even goes as far as to say it’s “Jones’ job to lose.”
“I was out at New England’s OTAs last week, and if you dropped in there from Mars and I asked you who the first quarterback was, I don’t think you’d have much problem figuring it out.”
He continues to state, “Jones was taking snaps from starting center David Andrews during early walkthrough periods. He was with the first group in just about every drill. He was with the monied skill-players during seven-on-seven work. I’m told, additionally, that’s really the way it’s been throughout the offseason program.”
On top of that, Albert Breer notices how much of a difference Bill O’Brien’s presence is making in New England. Especially for Mac Jones.
“The other thing that’s obvious is the impact new coordinator Bill O’Brien is having on Jones and the offense. The Patriots practice I saw moved efficiently, with the offense looking crisp and put together and Jones clearly looking like the team’s best quarterback.”
With that said, perhaps the Patriots do in fact have a franchise quarterback in Mac Jones.