Patriots reportedly make decision on Mac Jones

The New England Patriots may not get much in return for quarterback Mac Jones this offseason, but it seems the club is ready to part ways with the 25-year-old sooner rather than later. 

According to Nick Shook of the league's website, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported on Friday afternoon that "New England appears open to trading Jones and has been fielding calls from teams interested in the quarterback." Rapoport added that clubs have been "doing work" on the 2021 first-round draft pick. 

Jones earned a Pro Bowl nod as a rookie but struggled mightily over the following two seasons amid rumors claiming his relationship with then-head coach Bill Belichick began to deteriorate during the 2022 campaign. Belichick pulled Jones from games on four different occasions this past fall, and the signal-caller did not play across New England's final six contests of the 2023 season. 

Many expect the Patriots will spend the third overall selection of this year's draft on a quarterback such as Jayden Daniels of the LSU Tigers, Drake Maye of the North Carolina Tar Heels or J.J. McCarthy of the Michigan Wolverines. It's also believed New England wants to sign a proven commodity in free agency who could serve as a "bridge" option at the position and a mentor for a rookie. 

Specifically, the Patriots have been linked with Jacoby Brissett of the Washington Commanders and Joe Flacco of the Cleveland Browns. Both have experience playing under New England offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt. 

Rapoport didn't name teams that have called New England regarding Jones' services, but the veteran of three NFL seasons likely won't cost much in a trade. Last month, Patriots beat writer Chris Mason of MassLive predicted that New England could expect to receive a "low" fifth-round draft pick or a "high" sixth-round selection in return for Jones. 

Dallas Robinson of Pro Football Network reported on Friday afternoon that the Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, San Francisco 49ers, Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Rams are among potential landing spots for Jones. Logic suggests Jones' employer will decline the option worth around $25.664M for the 2025 season attached to his contract by the May 2 deadline for such decisions.