Mac Jones Shows Promise in Preseason Debut with New Team
Patriots’ Former QB Demonstrates Growth in Jaguars System
Mac Jones made his highly anticipated preseason debut for the Jacksonville Jaguars, showing flashes of potential in his first game action since being traded from New England. The 25-year-old quarterback completed 6-of-9 passes for 55 yards while leading two drives against the Cleveland Browns’ starting defense.
Key Takeaways from Jones’ Performance
Let’s not forget Mac Jones is a Pro Bowler pic.twitter.com/L5P50DAXxf
— ThatsGoodSports (@BrandonPerna) August 10, 2025
1. Immediate Chemistry with Receivers
Jones displayed improved timing with rookie wideout Brian Thomas Jr., connecting on several key passes:
22-yard completion to set early offensive tempo
Showed patience working through progressions
Took responsibility for miscommunications: “We’re working on our timing… he’s doing a good job in practice”
2. Command of New Offensive System
Former Patriots QB Mac Jones looks absolutely RIPPED in this video of him delivering a 60 yard deep ball in stride.
Was Kyle Shanahan’s system the one thing Mac Jones needed? pic.twitter.com/pT64qaQQOi
— BostonMuse (@BostonSportMuse) August 5, 2025
The Alabama product appeared comfortable in Jacksonville’s scheme:
Demonstrated understanding of play concepts
Showcased improved footwork from Patriots tenure
Emphasized daily growth: “Focusing on my footwork and reads… looking forward to the challenge”
3. Leadership Qualities Emerging
Jones took accountability for offensive struggles:
Critiqued his own second-drive performance
Initiated film review with coaches and receivers
Maintained positive sideline presence with Trevor Lawrence
Technical Improvements Noticed
Pocket Presence
Stepped into the throws under pressure
Showed better awareness of the pass rush
Ball Placement
Several pinpoint throws to the boundary
Only one truly inaccurate pass (nearly intercepted)
Decision Making
Quicker post-snap processing
Limited risky throws
What This Means for Jones’ Role
Current QB2 status appears secure
Could see meaningful preseason snaps to build continuity
Valuable mentor for young receivers like Thomas Jr.
Insurance policy behind Lawrence in competitive AFC South
Jones’ Own Assessment
“It felt pretty good just to get back playing football… I’m on a new team again and you just get more comfortable as time goes along.”
The quarterback emphasized his daily focus on fundamentals and praised the Jaguars’ offensive system as being particularly suited to his skillset.
Coaching Staff Reaction
Head coach Doug Pederson noted:
Satisfied with Jones’s command of offense
Impressed by pre-snap adjustments
Plans to give him extended work in the next preseason game
Looking Ahead
Jones will have opportunities to:
Build chemistry with second-team receivers
Showcase skills in joint practices
Potentially earn a package-specific regular-season role
With continued growth, the 2021 Pro Bowl alternate could reestablish himself as a starting-caliber QB in the NFL.
