The New England Patriots are definitely shopping for their quarterback of the future.
Signing Cam Newton to a one year deal yet again just solidifies that point.
I'm told this deal is essentially a beefed-up version of last year's incentive-heavy Patriots contract for Cam Newton. Last year's deal was worth up to $7.5 million, with a base value of just $1.05 million, $700K in per-game roster bonuses, and $5.75 million in incentives. https://t.co/gPAdjMVVmn
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 12, 2021
The Patriots have the 15th overall pick so all eyes will be on them to see if they pick a quarterback.
There were rumblings that the Patriots may trade up to get a bigger name in the 2021 quarterback class like Justin Fields or Trey Lance.
However, it looks like the Patriots should and will target Mac Jones in the draft.
Many believe making Jones a Patriot is a good move including NFL insider and draft guru Mel Kiper.
Stop us if you've heard this before: Mac Jones threw a touchdown to Devonta Smith. pic.twitter.com/dPcvSk78w3
— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) December 6, 2020
Mel Kiper’s Rationale
Kiper’s mock draft has the Patriots taking Jones with the 15th pick.
“Look at that — New England doesn’t even have to trade up to find its quarterback. Cam Newton is returning for another season, of course, and that was a smart deal to bring back a well-respected guy whom the rest of the locker room loves. But Newton is not likely to be the Patriots’ guy past 2021, and Jones could soak up the pro game for a season before taking over as the starter.”
Are Tom Brady Comparisons Fair?
They probably are not fair to Jones who has his own style and approach to the game, but the heir apparent in New England will inevitably be compared.
Kiper sees similarities and is not afraid of the potential wrath for articulating them.
“I’ve gotten in trouble before for saying that a few quarterbacks are ‘Tom Brady-like,’ but I’m really talking about accurate, tall pocket passers. I’m not predicting that these guys are going to become Hall of Famers…When I watch Jones, I can see some of the traits that have made Brady so good for so long. Jones is a pinpoint thrower who can manipulate the pocket and find targets down the field. He is a leader in the locker room, too. This is a good fit.”
Mac Jones Pro Day
Jones looked very good at Alabama’s Pro Day on March 23, 2021.
His speed is not a trademark quality for him, but he still managed to impress with a better than expected 40 yard dash time.
Mac Jones 40-yard dash: 4.86
— PFF Draft (@PFF_College) March 23, 2021
His arm strength and accuracy are what could carry him through an NFL career.
Alabama Coach Nick Saban speaks highly of Mac Jones.
“I think you’re gonna fall in love with a guy that is really a hard worker. Good leader. The guy is very committed to being the best player that he can be. He’s smart, he’s going to know the offense inside out…“He makes quick decisions he’s got great judgment, and he’s very accurate with the ball. I think the combination of those things is going to make him a fine player to the next level.”
All of these qualities sound like ones Bill Belichick would love to have in his future starting quarterback.
NEXT: Patriots DB Patrick Chung Announces His Retirement
Elyse Jerrell says
My heart burns with anger, but the part of me that’s still his responds to him, still wants to believe there’s hope. It’s the thing I love and hate most about love: Hope dies last.