NFL Trade Rumors: League insider gives latest on Mac Jones, highlights Patriots' major issue
Could Mac Jones be out of New England after just two seasons?
The third-year quarterback who brought the Patriots to the playoffs in 2021 is reportedly on the trade block. Rumors circled earlier this offseason that the team could potentially move on from him. Senior writer Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk confirmed the news earlier this week that the team had been actively shopping him.
Appearing on NBC Sports Boston, NFL insider Albert Breer confirmed Florio's news
Breer said:
"I think what happened was and I've got this on decently deep, I had some good authority, that while those calls are being made, during the Combine before free agency when teams are talking about names back and forth. Mac Jones' name came up a few times at times, now, Mike Florio presented the four teams."
Breer confirmed a few of the teams that the Patriots contacted that Florio mentioned. He also thinks that one issue in facilitating a trade is because they wouldn't get great value in return.
Breer added:
"I know a couple of them at least didn't hear from the Patriots and Matt Jones and I don't think Florian presented it that way, either…. But I do know, his name came up in trade discussions with a couple of teams and I think part of the issue now is they wouldn't get great value for."
"I do know [Mac Jones'] name came up in trade discussions with a couple teams"
@AlbertBreer shares what he's hearing about the Mac Jones report on Boston Sports Tonight https://t.co/OvSJD6J4ab
The Patriots and Bill Belichick grew frustrated with Jones this past season for his behavior on the field and for seeking advice from the University of Alabama on how to help the Patriots offense out amid their struggles.
Who will the New England Patriots replace Mac Jones with if they trade him?
If the New England Patriots successfully trade away Mac Jones, it would make sense for them to turn their attention to Lamar Jackson.
Jackson is the best option available at quarterback as he's a proven winner with a 45-16 career record. Jackson led the Ravens to four playoff appearances as he broke the single-season rushing record for quarterbacks and won the league's MVP in 2019.
There are even some rumors of Jackson wanting to join the Patriots.
Lamar Jackson Wants to Play for the Patriots #NewEnglandPatriots #Patriots #PatsFootball #Pats clnsmedia.com/lamar-jackson-…
Head coach Bill Belichick has had a proven winner at quarterback for most of his life in Tom Brady. Trading for a proven winner (Jackson) who is in his prime could make the Patriots a playoff team again.
If Mac Jones is traded, do you see the Patriots trading for Lamar Jackson?
If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Albert Breer, NBC Sports, and H/T Sportskeeda.