The New England Patriots have made their first move of the 2021 NFL Draft — and it was a big one. Even though they did not trade up the board, as was previously rumored, Bill Belichick and company still were able to get their potential next starting quarterback.
With the 15th selection, after all, the Patriots selected Mac Jones out of Alabama.
Jones is coming off an impressive season as the Crimson Tide’s starter: he completed 77.4 percent of his passes for 4,500 yards, 41 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions — all while leading Alabama to the National Championship.
The eventual plan for Jones is clear: he will be the face of the franchise, even though there is no guarantee he will become the Patriots’ starting quarterback in Year 1. After all, New England still has incumbent starter Cam Newton under contract. New England will give Jones every chance to earn the QB1 role this year, but Newton is a solid fallback option.
What happens remains to be seen, but we now know that the Patriots have their new franchise quarterback.
Welcome aboard, McCorkle Jones!
Poll
How would you grade the Patriots’ decision to draft Mac Jones at No. 15?
This poll is closed
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67%
A
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23%
B
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5%
C
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1%
D
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1%
F