From the moment he was named the team’s starting quarterback in the preseason, Mac Jones was a difference-maker for the New England Patriots. Following a disappointing 2020 season where the team missed the playoffs for the first time since 2008, Jones stepped in during his rookie campaign and led the Patriots to a 10-7 record.
New England would ultimately appear to be a few pieces away from competing for a Super Bowl, as it was blown out on the road against the Buffalo Bills in the first round.
But the early success of Jones has stabilized a franchise that was believed to be in limbo after the departure of future hall of fame quarterback Tom Brady.