Not every NFL talent evaluator is convinced Mac Jones is going to improve in his sophomore season.
Some are expressing doubts about how he’ll fare with Joe Judge as his primary coach, while others are wondering whether he’s a strong enough passer to lead the Patriots offense.
One of those skeptics recently spoke with ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler for a piece about all six projected or possible second-year starters: Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson, Justin Fields, Davis Mills, Trey Lance and Jones.
The unnamed AFC scout said he thinks Jones is a game manager. “"[Jones is] not a guy you win with because of him at this level yet,” the scout said. “The tight ends will have to produce and the running game. Win with defense, and let him manage the game.”
That was New England’s apparent strategy last season, as the Patriots seldom allowed Jones to stretch the field — especially early in games. Two of his most prolific performances of the year — 229 yards and two touchdowns against Dallas; 299 yards and two touchdowns against Indianapolis — came when the Patriots were trailing for most of the game.
Last season, Jones completed 67.6 percent of his passes for 3,801 yards, 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions —good enough for a spot in the Pro Bowl. He was the best quarterback of his class, though he struggled over the final month. He posted a 79.8 QB rating with six touchdowns and five picks over his last five games.
He was decent against the Bills in the Wild Card Round —63.16 completion percentage, 232 yards, two touchdowns, two INTs — but it was hard to evaluate his performance. The Patriots were never competitive in the game.
Though the Patriots added DeVante Parker this offseason, they appear to be counting on improved performances from some of last year’s underwhelming acquisitions, such as Jonnu Smith and Nelson Agholor.
One NFL coach told Fowler he’s confident Jones can take a step forward with this supporting cast, provided his quarterbacks coach doesn’t get in the way. "He would be my No. 1 by a lot,” the offensive coach said. “Really efficient and smart player. But who's coaching him? Is it Joe Judge potentially calling plays?”
Jones may put it together on the field, but that will mean little if he’s sabotaged on the sidelines.
