Change has come to New England. The Patriots have a new head coach in Jerod Mayo, and the team’s quarterback room is expected to be overhauled.
This means the team will say goodbye to former first round pick Mack Jones. Despite those expectations, Mayo praised Jones, especially for the way he tried to improve. “Mac Jones is working out,” Mayo told ESPN. “I really appreciate that attitude, that ‘turn the page’ mentality.” 2023 marked Jones’ third year in the NFL. It was a disaster for him and the Patriots. He started 11 games during the season before being assigned to Bailey Zappé. In those 11 games, Jones threw for 2,120 yards, 10 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
In four of those games, New England failed to score at least 10 points. After a promising rookie season in 2021, he suffered a major setback.
Despite those issues, Mayo told ESPN that the future of New England’s quarterback position has yet to be decided. “Mayo is keeping all options open and said it’s an evaluation period for all positions, including the coaching staff,” ESPN’s Mike Reis said. Jones and Bailey said of Zappe, “All these kids can do is grow and get better.” Bailey Zappe tried to replace Mack Jones and may not have much of a future outside of playing a backup role. In 10 games (including six), Zappe threw for 2,053 yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Both players are signed to rookie contracts through the 2024 season.
Either way, the Patriots are expected to get the No. 3 overall in the NFL Draft or find a quarterback in free agency. Teddy Bruschke tackles Jerod Mayo for the Patriots. Former Patriots quarterback and current NFL analyst Teddy Bruschke praised the hiring of Jerod Mayo, who won three Super Bowls with the team. “Actually, I’m not surprised at all. The relationship with the administrator, Mr. Kraft, was actually Brian Belichick’s defensive coordinator.
I think we can get the best of both worlds with a little help from Bill Belichick.But it’s not true,” Brushy said. “I think that’s what he’s looking for.
Someone who knows the basics, structure, philosophy and techniques of defense. If you look at what organizations want, New Age people are… people who are willing to work and can work with a lot of people. Jerod Mayo is the right man for the job.
