Mac Jones has opportunity to claim Patriots starting job

With quarterback Cam Newton out with a COVID-19 procedure mistake, rookie Mac Jones from Alabama has a chance to win the New England Patriots starting job, stated NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The Patriots selected Jones in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft and Jones has been Newton’s backup through the offseason so far.

Mac Jones starting for the Patriots?

Although there has been no word of any changes in New England with regards to the starting quarterback, Rapoport feels there’s a real chance for Jones to impress.

“With Patriots quarterback Cam Newton out after a COVID-related mishap, rookie Mac Jones has a big opportunity in front of him,” Rapoport stated.

The New England Patriots will be without expected starting quarterback Cam Newton until Thursday due to COVID protocols. Newton will be sidelined through Wednesday before he can re-join the Patriots.

While discussing head coach Bill Belichick’s comment on whether or not this is an opportunity for Jones, Rapoport mentioned that Belichick’s words are clear and to the point.

“The way he speaks, the way he delivers the message… it is very clear and concise,” the NFL insider pointed out. “Is this an opportunity for Mac Jones to take a big step forward and potentially become the starting quarterback for the Patriots? It is.

“With Cam Newton not there… does lead me to believe that it is an opportunity for Mac Jones. Availability is a very big thing in New England. If he shows that command of the offense, that potentially he can be the starter. If Cam Newton is not there to respond, the coaches can’t help but get intrigued… look into it a little closer. This is a really big week for Mac Jones.”

Why Cam Newton is out

In a statement, the Patriots said that Newton traveled to a medical appointment which will require him to stay away from team facilities for five days.

“On Saturday, Cam Newton traveled to a Club-approved medical appointment that required him to leave the New England area,” the statement said. “He received daily Covid tests, which were all negative. Due to a misunderstanding about tests conducted away from NFL facilities, and as required by the NFL-NFLPA protocols, Cam will be subject to the five-day entry cadence process before returning to the facility. Cam will continue participating virtually in team activities and return to the club facility on Thursday, August 26.”

On3’s Jonathon Wagner contributed to this article.