Kathryn Riley
Update:
Mac Jones could be benched early against the Raiders and is expected to be on a “short leash”, according to Ian Rapport.
If he’s benched, it could indeed be Will Grier that takes over, per the report.
Original Story:
The Patriots, currently facing a quarterback dilemma with Mac Jones’ struggling, are contemplating giving Will Grier a shot as a starter if Jones continues to trend downwards.
According to Boston Sports Journal’s Greg Bedard, if Jones fails to improve his performance in the upcoming game against the Raiders, the reins might be handed over to Grier.
“From talking to people around the team, I think if Mac Jones doesn’t succeed this week, if he doesn’t retain his job, I think it’s Will Grier’s,” Greg Bedard said during Tuesday’s on the “Felger & Mazz” show on 98.5 The Sports Hub, according to the New York Post.
It’s an interesting choice considering that Grier hasn’t played in an NFL game since his stint with the Carolina Panthers in 2019. Even more surprising is that, if the switch happens, it would skip over backup Bailey Zappe.
Earlier this week, Bill Belichick announced he’ll stick with Jones as his starter despite his benching during the Patriots’ 34-0 loss to the Saints. Jones had three turnovers in that game, including a pick-6.
This marked the second consecutive week that Jones was replaced, with Zappe stepping in during both instances. Notably, Jones has accumulated six turnovers over the past two weeks, three of which resulted in defensive scores for the opposing teams. He was also benched in a 38-3 loss to the Cowboys on Week 4.
Grier, 28, joined the Patriots’ after being signed from the Bengals’ practice squad. Despite his lack of recent NFL action, Grier showcased his potential in a remarkable final preseason game.
His stats were notable: a passer rating of 122.0, completing 29 out of 35 passes, accumulating 305 passing yards, 45 rushing yards, and delivering four total touchdowns with zero interceptions.
Could Grier be the fix for the Patriots season? highly unlikely, but at this points, seems most fans will take just about anyone over Mac Jones.