Mac Jones Uncertain About Role Amid Patriots QB Controversy

The third-year New England Patriots quarterback discussed his status with the team Wednesday.

Who will be the Patriots’ starting quarterback in Week 12?

It’s a question that has yet to be answered—at least publicly—after the team’s benching of Mac Jones late in the team’s Week 10 loss to the Colts in Germany. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Jones was asked directly if he’ll be starting against the Giants on Sunday.

Jones responded that that’s “the plan,” per Zack Cox of NESN. However, the third-year pro didn’t sound too sure of himself in doing so. 

Mac Jones said he and Bill Belichick have had “good conversations” about who will start at QB this week. He’s “focusing on what (he) can control.”

Is he starting Sunday?

“I hope so. That’s the plan, I think.” pic.twitter.com/dVWSHenDbu

— Zack Cox (@zm_cox) November 22, 2023

It’s never reassuring when someone has to add the words “I think” after saying that a certain course of action was the plan. But given how things have gone for Jones this year, it’s not too surprising to hear him sound uncertain about his role.

The Alabama product, who was benched in favor of backup Bailey Zappe last season, seemingly has found himself in the same situation this season, as his inconsistent play has hurt the 2–8 Patriots. 

Jones threw three touchdown passes in Week 1 against the Eagles, then followed up that effort with just a pair of touchdown passes against six interceptions in the ensuing five games combined. After Jones seemingly cleaned up his act in divisional tilts against the Bills and Dolphins, he came back down to earth in Germany against Indianapolis. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick saw enough and pulled Jones in favor of Zappe before the team’s final drive. 

Jones said he and Belichick have had “good conversations” about whom the team’s starter will be. But Belichick, whether in a classic instance of gamesmanship or genuine uncertainty, has left the QB spot open to Jones, Zappe and even third-stringer Will Grier. 

Fortunately for the Patriots, they’ll be facing a Giants team that has had QB problems of its own. Kickoff between the Patriots and Giants (3–8) is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET Sunday at MetLife Stadium.