Mac Jones is set to return to his hometown, Jacksonville, as the New England Patriots have agreed to trade the veteran quarterback to the Jaguars in exchange for a sixth-round pick. The deal is pending finalization until the new league year begins and Jones successfully completes a physical, according to our insider.
The 15th overall pick in the 2021 draft, Jones had an impressive rookie season, earning a Pro Bowl nod and leading the Patriots to a playoff appearance. However, the following two years saw a regression, and Jones was benched during the second half of the 2023 season after posting a 2-9 record as the team’s starter.
Jones departs New England with an 18-25 starting record (including playoffs), 46 touchdowns, 36 interceptions, and a 66.1% completion rate. In Jacksonville, he will restart his career as the backup to Trevor Lawrence.
Given the reported limited interest from other teams, the Patriots secured a sixth-round pick for Jones, providing value in exchange for a player on the way out. This outcome is preferable to releasing Jones, as it allows New England to obtain an asset rather than losing him without compensation.
The New England Patriots’ decision to trade Mac Jones signals their intention to target a quarterback with the third overall pick in the upcoming NFL draft, with LSU’s Jayden Daniels being a prominent candidate. While parting with Jones, the 15th overall pick three years ago, is not ideal, the Patriots are poised to embark on a new era with a fresh signal-caller.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, recognizing the significance of a reliable backup quarterback, have elevated their backup position by acquiring Jones for a modest cost. Jones, a Jacksonville native, adds depth and experience to the Jaguars’ quarterback roster, and his willingness to embrace a backup role is seen as a positive.
The trade may not be considered perfect, as waiting for Jones to be released could have been an option, but the Jaguars secured a valuable asset without compromising too much. Jones, in his new role, can provide support to starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence on and off the field.