J.C. Jackson predicts Mac Jones will be ‘that guy’
Although he works closest with the receivers, in some ways the Patriots’ defensive backs have had the best view of rookie quarterback Mac Jones so far.
Aug 19, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New England Patriots defensive back J.C. Jackson (27) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Eric Hartline-USA TODAY SportsAlthough he works closest with the receivers and tight ends, in some ways the Patriots' defensive backs have had the best view of rookie quarterback Mac Jones so far. They're tasked with dissecting his game to try and stop him 20-30 plays a day (if not more) three or four days a week.
Because they're working against Jones instead of with him at practice, the cornerbacks and safeties may have a better idea of Jones' game as a whole. That's what made starting cornerback J.C. Jackson's comments on Jones on Thursday stand out.
"Mac Jones - he's gonna be that guy," Jackson told reporters when asked his reaction to Jones winning the starting QB job. "He's a rookie, but he plays like a vet. The way he reads defenses, the way he steps up in the pocket, delivers the ball, he's improved since the first time I saw him."
Jones' mental readiness for the NFL was highlighted as one of his best traits leading into the draft, and his ability to quickly learn and operate the Patriots' offense often been pointed to by experts as a key reason behind him winning the starting job. It appears Jackson, who has been facing Jones regularly for the last month and a half, feels the same way.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.
