The New England Patriots didn't have to wait long to have another leader at QB. After one year with Cam Newton, they took Mac Jones out of Alabama and it seemed like a match made in heaven.
While not spectacular on the field, Jones' work ethic and efficiency have granted him plenty of praise among his colleagues. Now, he's ready to take another step forward in his development.
Malcolm Butler Likes His Swag
Even the veterans love him. Per star CB Malcolm Butler, one of the things that stood out when he watched him on TV was how confident and driven he was:
"I like Mac. I was at home watching him. He’s got great energy on and off the field. I like him,” Butler said during OTAs. “His confidence, his swagger — I love that about him.”Jones Is A Leader, Says DeVante Parker
DeVante Parker also raved about Jones. The former Miami Dolphins wideout was one key addition in the offseason and he's already developing a strong rapport with his new quarterback:
“He’s a leader. He’s a young guy, but he’s vocal as a leader. That’s what this team needs,” Parker said. “I’ve been out here (only) a few weeks, but I see it.”His Stomach Is Gone, Says Kendrick Bourne
Jones never stood out thanks to his athleticism. But he's put a lot of work on his body in the offseason. That's why Kendrick Bourne gave him his flowers for getting in the best shape of his young career:
“He’s in the best shape of his life,” Bourne said. “I think he’s been here all offseason with (head strength and conditioning coach) Moses (Cabrera), so he looks really good. His stomach is gone, and he looks really good. He’s definitely a pro’s pro now."Jones Is Living His Best Life
Jones also opened up on how different it is to have already one season under his belt. He knows what to expect and how to get prepared to be better after his rookie year in the NFL:
“Just as a rookie, you come in, you’re kind of thrown in and all the plates are hot,” Jones said, “so you kind of just try and find your feet. But now this past offseason and right now, we’ve just built a great relationship with the offensive line, the receivers, hanging out together, just doing things together off the field, because at the end of the day, we’re all friends. We work together, we want to play for one another, and that’s important to me. That’s why football is the best team sport.”He's got the traits and the intangibles to be great. Now, all he has to do is play.
]]>The Inquisitr
