Mac Jones receives rave reviews from Patriots teammates

New England Patriots rookie quarterback Mac Jones has gotten the first-team reps this week following a COVID-19-related miscommunication between the organization and expected starting quarterback Cam Newton. Not only has Jones performed with the ball in his hands, he is making strides in the leadership arena as well.

His teammates are noticing. 

Veteran running back James White had especially nice things to say about the former Alabama quarterback.

“He’s getting a lot of reps now. He’s taking control of the huddle and just trying to do the best he can,” White said, per the Boston Herald. “He’s just making sure everybody is on the same page, so we can go out there and execute not just for one period, but throughout the entire practice.”

First-team wide receiver Kendrick Bourne echoed White’s sentiment.

“I think Mac is doing a good job, taking leadership, controlling everybody, having everybody in the right place and stuff like that — making the team be a real team,” Bourne said.

The defense loves what they see

Jones had a few laughs with Patriots linebacker Matt Judon on Wednesday after throwing two touchdowns against the veteran. After throwing his second touchdown pass, Jones held up two fingers and looked in Judon’s direction. Judon threw the trash talk right back, and complemented Jones after the practice. 

“Mac’s a good quarterback,” Judon said. “He’s reading things well, and he’s learning when to be assertive.”

Defensive lineman Deatrich Wise loved Jones’ practice performance during 11-on-11.

“Did you see the period?” Wise told reporters. “I think he looks pretty good.”

The Patriots take on the Giants in their final preseason game on Sunday afternoon.

Newton, Jones have good relationship

Former Auburn quarterback Newton and former Alabama quarterback Jones have been engaged in a quarterback battle for the duration of fall camp. Despite the competition, Newton has been a positive mentor for Jones. 

“It’s been great,” Jones said of his teammates. “Obviously, Cam has been in the NFL for a long time and he’s done a great job mentoring me and helping me and providing that leadership aspect in meetings or even personal time just talking through stuff. He’s been awesome and a great mentor. Brian Hoyer has obviously done a good job as well just helping me out. He’s been in the system for a while with Jarrett (Stidham) as well.”

Newton returns to New England practice today, and it remains uncertain who will get the starting gig.