The New England Patriots seem set to go with Cam Newton as the starting quarterback for Week 1.
But there is always drama in the NFL and that continues this week with the Patriots.
Newton has to stay away from the team facility until Thursday because of a misunderstanding with COVID tests.
Thus, rookie Mac Jones can get some valuable reps at a time when Newton’s grasp on the starting job isn’t all that tight.
Big opportunity for Mac to run the show this week with Cam out. pic.twitter.com/NGAkvmrAf7
— Paul Perillo (@pfwpaul) August 23, 2021
In the end, Newton should return and get back to work without any disruption.
Yet Jones having this alone time with the first-team offense could go a long way toward him winning the job sooner than expected and even in 2021.
Most Recent Outing
The Patriots just recently destroyed the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 2 of the preseason by a final of 35-0.
The main story from the game was Jalen Hurts being ruled out before kickoff with a stomach illness.
However, the Eagles defense cannot escape blame for such a terrible performance.
Back to the Patriots, Newton looked solid going 8/9 for 103 yards and a touchdown.
Jones got more time and ended up 13/19 for 146 yards, but failed to connect for a touchdown.
Brian Hoyer also got some reps as he tries to stick as the third quarterback.
Jones has absolutely looked solid so far, but he is still a rookie.
Bill Belichick wants to win in the present and that means going with the more experienced Newton.
Mac Jones on a frozen rope 🚀
pic.twitter.com/rOiDECIg0t— PFF (@PFF) August 20, 2021
Of course, that situation could change as early as Week 2 if things are awful in the opener against Miami.
A Golden Opportunity
Jones has gotten a good amount of playing time and has his fair share of highlights already.
Belichick is just not a coach to get too hung up on preseason results.
The fact he has come out and said Newton is currently the starter, while stoic, says a lot.
But this week could be the beginning of the long-term Jones era in New England.
He can shine in practice and show the entire team he deserves to start some time soon.
And if he struggles?
He has nothing to lose because he is still only a rookie.
The Patriots used a first-round pick on Jones.
That means he is going to get a fair shot to start at some point, regardless of how he looks in practice.
The early results being good means he is on the right track and Newton has to play nearly perfect to avoid any conversation about losing his job.
NEXT: Determining Jarrett Stidham’s Future In New England
