Patriots QB Mac Jones entering a make-or-break third season
New England Patriots need several additions to their offense
The Patriots need to bolster the offensive tackle position dramatically. The best in the business, Tom E. Curran prioritizes the need. Here’s what he says at nbcsports.com,
"It’s a 5. Top priority. The team needs far better play at both tackle positions. They need to shore that up through the draft, free agency and through coaching. The return of Bill O’Brien will help. Klemm and Yates together (presumably) should give the team more cohesion with the day-to-day coaching, discipline and execution."
It is barely average at present. In addition, new weapons are needed at wide receiver, tight end, and maybe even a running back if Damien Harris is not re-signed.
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That’s a big order to fill but if the personnel operation can’t perform as needed, forget advancing in an ever-competitive AFC East, never mind in the playoffs.
If they do their jobs (a huge “if” for the New England Patriots), then it’s all on Jones to coalesce the divergent pieces into a proverbial well-oiled machine. The goal is to regain competitiveness, real competitiveness in the divisional beyond.
Jones’ weaknesses are evident. His pocket presence is average at best. In addition, perhaps Jones’ biggest deficiency is his inescapability in the pocket. These faults somewhat offset his accuracy which can be superb.
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He also has poor footwork and turtles rather than use a short step up or sideways to avert pressure (ala Tom Brady) and make a completion. A better offensive line providing a clean pocket will certainly help there.
Hopefully, he’ll get one. But escapability if it’s lacking will always be an issue in the NFL. It’s a necessity. If there is any deficiency that could keep Jones from becoming the quarterback he can be, that’s it. Not sure if it can be taught or if it’s innate. It is what it is. We’ll see.
So here are a few thoughts on Mac Jones and 2023. What do you think are Jones’ biggest opportunities and hurdles this season? We’d like to hear.