New England Patriots

New England Patriots

New England Patriots

May 23, 2022; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones (10) heads to the practice field for the team's OTA at Gillette Stadium. Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

Just how bad was the Patriots’ offensive coaching setup in 2021? Quarterback Mac Jones might have let slip his thoughts.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Patriots held their first open OTA practice of the spring. Jones spoke after practice, and was asked what the process has been like with new offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien.

  • “It’s been really good. It’s been normal,” Jones told reporters, “I think everything he’s done so far has been really good.”

    Jones referencing the ‘normal’ feel of O’Brien’s offense is certainly worth a comparison to this time last year, when Matt Patricia and Joe Judge were tasked with running the offense, with Bill Belichick overseeing. The result in that setup was a massive step back for Jones and the Patriots as a whole after a promising 2021 season. As Jones continued answering the question, it remained hard to shake the comparative nature between this year and last year.

    “I think the communication is the most important part – and trust. I think it all starts with that when you’re with a new coach,” he continued. “He’s done a great job in controlling the room [I] feel like everyone’s on the same page.”

  • Jones was also asked how much carryover he’s seen in the offense O’Brien is installing to the one he ran at Alabama – where Jones helped teach him the playbook upon his arrival in 2021.

    “Yeah, I mean, I’m not going to get into specifics – give it away,” Jones replied. But I think there’s definitely things like – we talk about lingo. There’s things we both say and it makes sense.”

    For a full recap of the Patriots’ first open OTA practice, check out our recaps here and here.

  • 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.

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