Reporter provides update on Mac Jones' future with Patriots

After struggling mightily over the past two seasons, it's clear Mac Jones isn't the answer at quarterback for the New England Patriots, but that doesn't mean he won't be on the team next season.

The 2021 first-round pick's rapid fall from grace since making the Pro Bowl as a rookie is one of the more puzzling stories in the NFL and was caused by several underlying factors. In an article published on Monday, MassLive's Mark Daniels shared some behind-the-scenes details on how Jones' career came crashing down so quickly and what New England plans to do regarding his fifth-year option. 

The fifth-year-option window for Jones' draft class opened on Jan. 8, and teams are required to make final decisions by May 2. While Daniels reports that Jones will not have his option picked up, there's still a chance he'll be on New England's roster in 2024. Jones' disconnect with Bill Belichick played a significant role in his decline, but now that the six-time Super Bowl-winning head coach is out of town, the signal-caller is getting a fresh start.

"According to a source, the Patriots don’t plan on picking up Jones’ fifth-year option," Daniels wrote. "The quarterback has a clean slate with [new HC Jerod] Mayo and could remain on the roster, but the team won’t hesitate to move him if the right deal comes across their desk."

It's worth mentioning that Belichick unsuccessfully tried to trade Jones last offseason after the Alabama product regressed in New England's Matt Patricia and Joe Judge-led offense. Chances are, teams won't jump at the opportunity to trade for Jones this offseason, considering he threw for 2,120 yards, 10 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 11 games. 

Daniels added that New England is "expected to pursue quarterback help" during the offseason, which is as unsurprising as Jones' fifth-year option not being exercised. The easiest way for the Patriots to add a quarterback is in the 2024 NFL Draft, where they hold the third overall pick, but they could also acquire one in free agency or via trade. 

As for Jones, it still seems unlikely he'll be New England's starting quarterback next season, even if he is on the roster, though that's not to say his career is unsalvageable.

We've seen plenty of QB redemption stories around the NFL in recent years, and Daniels reported that Jones told team members that he feels his career path might follow in the footsteps of Seahawks QB Geno Smith. The former New York Jets draft pick waited seven seasons for another full-time starting role and ultimately revitalized his career in 2022, leading Seattle to a playoff berth and winning the Comeback Player of the Year Award.