Following another frustrating loss in Week 10, the New England Patriots are contemplating significant changes to their quarterback lineup, especially with the struggles of Mac Jones.
Patriots insider Tom E. Curran of NBC Sports Boston, speaking on “The Rich Eisen Show,” revealed that Jones is likely to be moved down to the third-string quarterback position behind Bailey Zappe and Will Grier. Curran outlined a potential scenario where Grier would be elevated to the starting position, and if he doesn’t perform well, Bailey Zappe would take over as the starter, with Grier becoming the backup.
This decision comes on the heels of Head Coach Bill Belichick benching Jones in favor of Zappe during the Pats’ final drive in the Week 10 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Jones’ red zone interception with just over four minutes remaining prompted this strategic shift.
However, the quarterback switch did not yield positive results, as Zappe threw a game-sealing interception after a fake spike play. The loss brought New England’s record to 2-8 for the year.
Fire Mac Jones into the sun. This is the worst throw of his career pic.twitter.com/0upOL2qNLn
— Ben Brown 🌻 (@BenBrownPL) November 12, 2023
Jones, who showed promise in his rookie campaign in 2021, has faced increasing challenges in the 2022 season. Despite the return of offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien and the addition of notable players like JuJu Smith-Schuster and Ezekiel Elliott, Jones has struggled. The 25-year-old quarterback has accumulated 2,031 passing yards and 10 touchdowns, accompanied by 10 interceptions and 21 sacks in 10 contests.
With the Patriots on a bye week, Belichick has an extended period to assess and decide on the starting quarterback for Week 11 against the New York Giants. The team is undoubtedly looking to make strategic choices to improve performance and navigate the challenges of the season.