BREAKING NEWS: Jacksonville Jaguars coach outlines plan for 25-years- brilliant top-tier star

After the New England Patriots dealt Mac Jones to Jacksonville, the ex-Alabama quarterback aimed to “get back on track” with the Jaguars. Jones, who started from his first NFL game with the Patriots in 2021, was benched with six games left in the 2023 season. Despite having one season remaining on his guaranteed contract, New England decided to move on from the quarterback.

“I want to release any pressure for him to perform,” expressed Pederson at the league’s yearly gathering this week in Orlando, Florida. “He understands the standards as he joins and what we, as a team, anticipate. However, indeed, I cannot fully comprehend Mac Jones’ mindset, but being a first-round selection, having a remarkable rookie season, facing unexpected challenges, and being temporarily benched might have derailed his progress. That’s not indicative of his true potential.

“So, it’s also about restoring his confidence, allowing him to compete without the burden of being the main guy, and simply showcase his capabilities. That’s what we expect.”

Jones won’t be vying for the primary quarterback position in Jacksonville. In the same draft where Jones was selected 15th, the Jaguars picked Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence as the top overall pick. Jones will be backing up Lawrence along with C.J. Beathard.

Pederson mentioned that Jacksonville aims for Jones to fulfill the role of the third quarterback, as history has shown the necessity for three quarterbacks. However, the primary goal remains to ensure Lawrence’s well-being as it gives the team the best chance of winning.

Jones previously started every one of the 42 games he played for the Patriots. Nevertheless, with New England’s declining performance leading to a 4-13 record in 2023 and securing the No. 3 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Jones remained on the sidelines for the final six games

During his debut NFL season, Jones achieved 352 completions out of 521 attempts, accumulating 3,801 yards with 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. The Patriots secured a 10-7 record and entered the playoffs. Jones came in as the runner-up for the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Award and participated in the Pro Bowl.

In his second year, Jones connected on 288 of 442 passes, gaining 2,997 yards with 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. The Patriots fell short of the playoffs, finishing the season at 8-9, as Jones sat out three games due to an ankle injury.

Moving on to his third season, Jones completed 224 of 345 passes for 2,120 yards, registering 10 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

Initially, Josh McDaniels served as New England’s offensive coordinator during Jones’ rookie campaign. Following McDaniels’ departure to lead the Las Vegas Raiders, Jones collaborated with former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia as the playcaller in his second season, where the Patriots operated without a designated offensive coordinator. Subsequently, in 2023, New England enlisted the services of Bill O’Brien, the offensive coordinator from Alabama and former head coach of the Houston Texans, to oversee the team’s offensive strategies.