In a surprising move that marks the end of an era for the New England Patriots, quarterback Mac Jones is set to join the Jacksonville Jaguars in a trade deal that is currently being finalized, according to sources close to the situation. Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Jones is heading back to his hometown to become a backup for the Jaguars and provide competition behind their starting quarterback, Trevor Lawrence.
The trade, which cannot be processed until the new league year begins on Wednesday and after Jones passes a physical, involves the Patriots receiving a 2024 sixth-round pick as compensation. This trade signifies the Patriots’ decision to part ways with Jones, who faced challenges and benchings during his three-year tenure as the starting quarterback for New England.
Jones, the 15th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, had a promising start to his rookie season, earning a Pro Bowl nod and leading the Patriots to the playoffs. However, his performance declined over the subsequent two seasons, and he faced changes in coaching staff and offensive playcalling.
In 2023, former Patriots coach Bill Belichick turned to defensive coach Matt Patricia as the team’s offensive playcaller, with mixed results. Despite efforts to get Jones back on track, he was eventually benched in favor of Bailey Zappe after 11 games. The Patriots are now expected to select a quarterback with the third overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft, possibly targeting prospects like LSU’s Jayden Daniels, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, or Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy.
For the Jaguars, the addition of Jones provides a younger option behind Lawrence, offering depth and competition in the quarterback position. Lawrence faced multiple injuries in the 2023 season, leading to a challenging finish for the Jaguars. The team is making several changes to its offense in 2024, including the addition of Jones and re-signing left guard Ezra Cleveland.
As Jones heads to Jacksonville, he will compete with veteran C.J. Beathard for the backup spot, with Beathard having won his lone start last season. The trade sets the stage for a new chapter in Jones’ career and a potential fresh start in his hometown. The Patriots, on the other hand, will navigate the upcoming draft and free agency to secure a new quarterback and shape the future of their franchise.
This unexpected trade is likely to have significant implications for both the Patriots and the Jaguars, with fans eagerly awaiting the official confirmation and the start of a new era for Mac Jones in Jacksonville.