The New England Patriots and Bill Belichick parted ways Thursday after quarterback Mac Jones posted an emotional message to his former coach on Instagram.”I grew up dreaming of playing in the NFL and that dream grew stronger after watching Coach Belichick and the Patriots win the Super Bowl in my hometown,” Jones wrote. “My dream of playing in the NFL came true when I was drafted by the Patriots and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to play and learn under such a legendary coach. Coach Belichick has had an immeasurable impact on me and many other players.
“Unfortunately, Belichick’s tenure with Jones did not go according to plan. Jones, who played college football at the University of Alabama, was selected by the Patriots with the 15th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.He actually enjoyed a breakout rookie campaign, throwing for 3,801 yards, 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions while completing 67.6 percent of his passes and posting a 92.5 passer rating. He even earned Pro Bowl honors for his efforts. However, the following season, Jones finished with 2,997 yards, 14 touchdowns and 11 picks, completing 65.2% of his throws and posting an 84.8 passer rating in 14 starts.Jones’ decline continued this year. He made 11 starts before being assigned to Bailey Zappé. In that span, the 25-year-old has totaled 2,120 yards, 10 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, completing 64.9 percent of his passes and posting a 77 passer rating.The general expectation is that the Patriots will trade Jones next season, which could mark the end of his tenure in New England.
But even if Mack Jones stays in Foxboro until 2024, he won’t be under Belichick.Bill Belichick was the head coach of the Pats for 24 years, leading the franchise to six Super Bowl championships, nine Super Bowl appearances and 17 AFC East titles.
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