It didn’t even take two starts from Bailey Zappe for reports to trickle out about the supposed tension between Mac Jones and the Patriots.
On Sunday morning, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer said on NBC Sports Boston that Jones’ relationship with the club has “gone a little sideways” over the last few months. ProFootballTalk’s Mike Florio added onto Breer’s reporting with his own post Sunday, in which he writes there are “uncharacteristic rumblings surrounding the relationship between Jones and the Patriots.”
“There’s chatter that Jones isn’t thrilled with the situation there, starting with Belichick’s failure/refusal to replace skilled and experienced offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels with another skilled and experience designer and caller of plays,” writes Florio.
That reporting jives with Jones’ rough start to the season and apparent frustration with the offense. The second-year passer threw five interceptions in three games before suffering his high ankle sprain against the Ravens Sept. 25.
Florio adds that quarterbacks coach Joe Judge has “become an advocate for Zappe.”
Keep in mind: Florio published his story before the Patriots routed the Browns 38-15. Zappe completed 24-of-34 passes for 309 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. It was the Patriots’ best offensive showing this season — by far.
For what it’s worth, Bill Belichick’s lips remain sealed about the team’s QB situation. On “The Greg Hill Show,” he was noncommittal about who will be the quarterback going forward.
The Patriots host the Bears next Monday night.
