The year three leap that the Patriots need quarterback Mac Jones to take this season will be monumental in their quest for success in 2023.
But how big of a leap can we reasonably expect him to take? Would playing like Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins suffice? NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero seems to think so:
“Kirk Cousins, last season, went 13-4 with NO DEFENSE! WHATSOEVER!” Pelissero screamed on Tuesday's episode of Good Morning Football, insinuating that he carried them and their offense to the postseason. “They fired the defensive coordinator, they got rid of practically everybody on that side of the football.”
“Look what Mac Jones is working with in New England,” Pelissero continued. “When you talk about that Patriots defense last season. They were one of the most productive in the NFL… you would look at those numbers and say ‘well, this was probably a pretty good team.’ [But] they were a historically bad offense. And it’s not all on Matt Patricia just like it’s not all on Mac Jones.”
Pelissero went on to explain how Patriots owner Robert Kraft's involvement in the 2023 offseason was far different from years past:
“[He] had his fingerprints all over this offseason. He’s a Mac Jones fan. He wanted Bill Belichick to hire an offensive coordinator, which he did in Bill O’Brien... He wanted to retain Jerod Mayo… maybe the succession to Belichick, eventually, in Foxborough. Right now he’s a really important piece.”
But how important?
“The Patriots put out a statement saying we’re working toward an agreement with Jerod Mayo. The Patriots won’t confirm the sun rose this morning!”
Given that their first uncharacteristic approach to an offseason since Brady left brought them the likes of Nelson Agholor and Jonnu Smith (who have since departed), this second one better work out in their favor as they need to make a decision on Jones' fifth-year option following season's end.
If Jones does take a leap, then New England has their franchise quarterback.
If not? He may be looking for a second NFL team sooner rather than later - something he could go to Kirk Cousins for advice on.
Make sure to follow Mike on Twitter @mikekadlick, and follow @WEEI for the latest up-to-date Patriots and Boston sports news!
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