Mac Jones was drafted by the New England Patriots in the first round this season on April 29, 15th overall, becoming their new quarterback. Many did not expect him to end up with the Patriots, even though Jones was one of the top quarterback prospects of the 2021 NFL Draft.
After losing Tom Brady and after Cam Newton’s unfortunate experience with the team, New England hoped that Jones would be a strong, dedicated, and responsible quarterback and team player.
Jones, a rookie, told USA Today, “I’ve never played in the NFL. I don’t know what it’s like. I’m just going to go in there and work really hard, like I always have and I always will…. My job is to help them become better players, if I can…. I know I can help them with anything they need, taking notes or taking stress off their minds. So, I’m just going to be the great teammate that I know I can be.”
Patriots fans are pleased with Jones’s responsible, dedicated, and hard-working presence so far this season. However, I’ve noticed a lack of strong reaction to Mac by Dana Hall students and staff, and I want to encourage the Dana community to learn more about him and the characteristics of leadership that he has brought to the game.
After winning 90% of games playing Division 1 at the University of Alabama, Jones has brought his winning qualities to the Patriots, who stand at 6 games won and 4 lost. Jones progresses each week, handling the losses graciously without getting discouraged.
Chris Egan ’22 of Belmont Hill School believes that “Mac Jones is the best rookie quarterback this year, having the most touchdowns and the highest completion percentage.”
My dad has been a big Patriots fan for as long as I can remember. He acknowledged that “Mac has shown good leadership skills despite being a rookie.” My mom agreed, “He has done a great job so far, having big shoes to fill.”
Mia Housman ‘22 said, “I don’t think they’re surrounding him with the best players…. I think there’s a lot of pieces missing that are making it more difficult for him to perform well.”
Despite having lost a few games, Jones has continued to try his best and set his team up for success each time. His teammates recognize his hard work, specifically Patriots receiver Kendrick Bourne, who explains “He’s ready for everything that’s coming his way…. He’s making the team be a real team.” The rest of the team has shared their excitement to watch Mac grow and continue to lead the team.
Jones joined the NFL ready and optimistic. He knew the position he had to fulfill on the team and was eager to apply the lessons he learned and qualities he gained while playing college football.
His motivation never lacks, and he is aware that “It’s not always going to go your way, but you’ve got to just keep moving forward and try and get some wins on the board. You just roll with the punches and get up.”
Jones’s coach, team, and fans are confident that he will continue to strive as the future of the New England Patriots, and students and faculty here at Dana Hall should tune into the exciting season ahead with Mac.
Image source: DraftKings.
