Former New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones is set to join the Jacksonville Jaguars as a backup after a trade agreement between the two teams. The Patriots will receive a sixth-round pick in the upcoming NFL draft in exchange for Jones.
The trade, which is pending Jones passing a physical and the start of the new league year, will see the Jacksonville native return home to compete for the backup role behind starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Jones will be up against C.J. Beathard for the position, with both quarterbacks facing potential roster cuts as the Jaguars finalize their 53-man squad.
Selected 15th overall in the 2021 draft, Jones had a challenging season in 2023, finishing with a 2-9 record in 11 starts. Despite a Pro Bowl appearance in his rookie year, Jones struggled in his second season under former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia.
The Patriots are anticipated to draft a quarterback with the third overall pick, while the Jaguars sought a younger option to support Lawrence. Beathard, who won his sole start last season, will now compete with Jones for the backup role.
Jacksonville is making several changes to its offense for the upcoming season, including re-signing left guard Ezra Cleveland and restructuring the contract of right guard Brandon Scherff. The team is also considering adding a veteran center to the roster and may target a wide receiver in the draft.
General manager Trent Baalke and coach Doug Pederson have expressed confidence in Lawrence as their long-term quarterback, with plans to secure him to a substantial contract in the near future.
