Former Patriots quarterback Mac Jones is excited for a new start in a familiar place.
During Thursday’s press conference joining the Jaguars, the Jacksonville native expressed his gratitude to New England, which he called home for three seasons before last Sunday’s surprising trade.
“I have all the respect in the world for these guys. They were my first team and drafted me in the first round. I can’t thank them enough. .” Jones said. “Obviously, we just decided that it was the best decision for both of us to go our separate ways.
“For me, it’s just about moving on and going back home, and I couldn’t be more excited. And for them, it’s about moving forward and turning the page, and really, that’s what we’re going to do.” It’s like a decision, and I think that’s what it is.” It’s a great decision. ”
Jones, the No. 15 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, showed promise as a rookie by completing 67.6 percent of his passes, with 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, en route to a Pro Bowl appearance.
A new offensive coach enters his second year at the helm – Matt Patricia and Joe Judge replace Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels, who took the top spot with the Raiders – Jones struggles and on game day He was often caught venting his frustration.
Things took a turn for the worst last season, with Jones benched for games and backup quarterback Bailey Zappe taking over the starting role at the end of 2023.
Following a disastrous 4-13 season, head coach Bill Belichick and the Patriots parted ways in January after 24 seasons, six of which included a Super Bowl championship.
Former linebacker-turned-coach Jerrod Mayo was announced as Belichick’s replacement, and speculation began to emerge as to when Jones might be on the move.
Jones is grateful for “a lot of great learning experiences” with the Patriots.
“I learned from obviously one of the greatest head coaches of all time. I’ve been fortunate to work with some great head coaches and I’ve learned a lot,” he said.
Not only is Jones excited about his next chapter with the Jaguars, but so is his longtime girlfriend Sophie Scott.
Scott, who has been dating Jones since at least 2019, celebrated her move to Jacksonville on her Instagram Stories.
“I’m home,” she captioned the shot.
Jones, 25, will serve as the backup to Jaguars starter Trevor Lawrence, who was selected No. 1 overall in 2021.
Meanwhile, the Patriots are expected to select a quarterback with the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft next month.
