4 Patriots on Thin Ice After Week 10 Loss to Colts

1. Mac Jones, Quarterback

Jones seemed to be a perfect fit for Belichick and the New England Patriots when they landed him in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. The Alabama product wasn't known for his strong arm, but he was able to move the ball with accuracy and confidence. He then came in as a rookie and led the Patriots to a 10-7 record.

In Year 2, things went in the wrong direction for Jones. He was less efficient as a passer and New England went just 6-8 with him as the starter. For a time, it appeared as though Bailey Zappe was going to overtake him as the starter.

This season, Jones has kept the job but it hasn't been easy. He's now 2-8 and has lost three games in a row after throwing a backbreaking interception on Sunday. Tensions hit a boiling point as offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien was seen laying into Jones on the sideline.

The criticism didn't help Jones, who ended up throwing the game away in the fourth quarter. With Mike Gesicki wide open for a go-ahead touchdown, Jones threw the ball short and Julian Blackmon picked him off. After that, Zappe replaced Jones for the final drive, which also ended in an interception.

This was the 10th interception of the year for Jones (who had another dropped earlier in the game), which leads the NFL.

At this point, it feels as though there will be a lot of change coming for the Patriots, including a new quarterback potentially taking over for Jones after the bye.

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