The first-round pick has landed!
Not even 24 hours after becoming the first quarterback ever drafted by the Bill Belichick-led New England Patriots in Round 1, Mac Jones was officially introduced to the media on Friday afternoon. Jones, who was drafted 15th overall out of the University of Alabama, participated in the traditional photo-op at Gillette Stadium and later also spoke a few words about joining the team.
“It feels absolutely amazing,” the 22-year-old said. “I can’t thank the Kraft Family enough. Just to be a part of this is awesome. A lot of work has to be done, but to be on the 50-yard line here is a great moment for me. I’m just looking forward to meeting my new teammates and talking to some of the coaches and getting familiar with this organization.”
The Patriots had not drafted a QB in the first round since Drew Bledsoe in 1993 before picking Jones on Thursday. The youngster may not be a lock to start in Year 1, but he will get every chance to become the new face of the New England franchise.
However, his focus is not on what comes further down the line.
“I can’t even look that far into the future. That’s when you put yourself in a bind,” Jones said. “Right now, I’m here. It’s a blessing. Tomorrow I’ll figure out what I have to do tomorrow. I’m here, I’ll be looking around and just enjoying the moment and figure out what I have to do next to make the next step to learn the offense.”
Jones will join a quarterback group that also features incumbent starter Cam Newton and third-year man Jarrett Stidham.