New England Patriots: Mac Jones has already impressed LB Josh Uche

Second-year linebacker Josh Uche spoke with the media today, and told a story summarizing rookie New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones.

They played each other on the first day of 2020 in the Citrus Bowl. At the time, Uche was a LB for Michigan, and of course, Mac Jones was quarterbacking the Alabama Crimson Tide.

throughout the game, Uche was a problem. He disturbed the pocket time and time again, putting multiple pressures on Jones. Even getting in a good lick from behind the quarterback, putting Jones on his backside.

At some point in the game, Mac had blood in his mouth from a split molar. He never left the field.

Despite being under pressure most of the day, and having to deal with his future teammate living in the pocket, Jones would go on to throw for 3 touchdowns (2 in the second half to put the game away), along with over 300 yards through the air.

New England Patriots QB Mac Jones is one tough cookie

During his press conference, Uche had this to say:

"“It was cool to see him. He was a tough kid, man. He was standing in that pocket. I remember a couple of times I hit him, I’m like, ‘I know he’s not getting up.’ It was a dime the next play, so happy he’s on our team.”"

So far this offseason, it does’t sound like Uche is the first and only one to be impressed with the young quarterback.

According to reports, the Patriots coaching staff has been “blown-away” by Mac Jones so far. His intelligence, accuracy, and leadership has already made an impact at Rookie Mini-Camp. And according to these photos, OC Josh McDaniels has been keeping a close eye on the QB.

Most of the roster will get a look at the future starting next week, as OTAs begin May 24th.

The 10 practices in the OTA window are not mandatory, but most people expect to see a good chunk of the roster. Here are the exact dates of the upcoming Patriots schedule.