Mac Jones in trouble? Patriots QB’s dirty tackle on Bengals’ Eli Apple prompts NFL review
Mac Jones could find himself in deep trouble with the NFL following his low block on Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Eli Apple. According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, the New England Patriots quarterback could be fined, but not suspended.
Florio added that the league will take a look at the block this week and decide on Jones' punishment:
“Per a source with knowledge of the situation, the league will review for potentially discipline the hit to Apple’s lower legs on Monday, Tuesday at the latest. A suspension is currently believed to be unlikely, but it is one of the potential punishments.”
The play took place during a fumble return attempt by Cincinnati linebacker Germaine Pratt. Jones was seen making a low block on Apple, who was following the runner. The pass was called incomplete, and the play was eventually called back.
The referees did not see the illegal low block the Patriots signal-caller committed on Apple in the Week 16 matchup. However, the NFL did.
After the game, Eli Apple commented on the play:
“Of course I did [notice it]. He tripped me. I thought it was a dirty play. He’s done that before, I’ve seen it.”
A potential suspension being put forth as an option is something to keep an eye on. For Mac Jones, it's not the first time he's found himself embroiled in controversy for his behavior on the field.
Mac Jones' questionable plays
Mac Jones has had at least two head-scratching plays in the past. Last season, he looked to have twisted the ankle of Carolina Panthers defensive end Brian Burns. In Week 7, the Patriots quarterback kicked Chicago Bears rookie safety Jaquan Brisker in the groin at the conclusion of a slide.
The former Alabama Crimson Tide star can’t be labeled a repeat offender as he hasn't been fined in the past. Yet, the pattern of possible violations could make the NFL less likely to give Mac Jones the benefit of the doubt this time around.
We will see if the league decides to discipline the New England Patriots star in the coming days.
If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Pro Football Talk, Bengals.com and H/T Sportskeeda.