WATCH: Every Mac Jones completion in NFL debut for Patriots

New England Patriots rookie quarterback Mac Jones made his preseason debut Thursday night against the Washington Football Team.

In his debut, the Alabama product played five series and went 13-of-19 passing for 87 yards, with no touchdowns and no interceptions. He entered the game to a standing ovation with 55 seconds remaining in the first quarter after Cam Newton started the first two series for New England.

In typical fashion, New England head coach Bill Belichick didn’t give away too much on Jones’ performance.

“We’ll look at it on film and see,” Belichick said of Mac Jones’ performance, via Zack Cox of NESN. “Some good things, plenty of things we can improve on. Same with everybody.”

EVERY @MacJones_10 completion from the @AlabamaFTBL rookie's @Patriots preseason debut! pic.twitter.com/sbMsJCe1Tv

— NFL (@NFL) August 13, 2021

Newton didn’t hesitate to offer praise to Jones though

He came to me and we talked about (his preparation),” Newton told media after the game, via Mike Reiss of ESPN. “He wants to be so perfect, so pristine and that’s what I admire about him…we’re going to be here for each other throughout this whole process.”

If there was one soundbite from after the Patriots’ game to highlight, this one from Cam Newton would be my pick.

Insight from Cam on Mac, how they talked before the game, and what impresses him about the young QB.

Also reflects how Cam is playing role of mentor. pic.twitter.com/Md3grBJdNz

— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) August 13, 2021

Newton returns for his second year in New England looking to bounce back after an inconsistent 2020 season he admitted as impacted by COVID-19. Newton and Mac Jones are expected to compete for the starting job through the preseason. Belichick has previously stated that Newton is the starter but also stated that there could be a “hard decision,” down the line when talking about competition at the position.

This offseason, the Patriots invested in offensive weapons for whoever ends up behind center this season. New England acquired tight ends Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith, as well as wide receivers Kendrick Bourne and Nelson Agholor.

The Patriots could have a legitimate running back rotation as well. In addition to established veterans Sony Michel, James White and Damien Harris, on Thursday, another rookie broke out. Running back Rhamondre Stevenson, a fourth-round pick from Oklahoma, had 127 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 10 carries. His highlight of the game came late in the first quarter when he burst around the edge and down the sideline for a 91-yard rushing touchdown.

Last season at Alabama, Mac Jones threw for 4,500 yards, 41 touchdowns and just four interceptions. He set an NCAA single-season record with his 77.4 completion percentage. Jones led the Rolling Tide to their seventh national championship under Nick Saban.

Jones was drafted 15th overall by the Patriots in the 2021 NFL Draft.