FOXBORO, Mass. — In a perfect world, Mac Jones and JuJu Smith-Schuster would be on the practice field every day, developing chemistry and trust.
But that’s not the reality the Patriots are in right now.
Smith-Schuster, New England’s top offseason acquisition, didn’t participate in voluntary organized team activities while nursing a knee injury he suffered during the playoffs. And the veteran receiver wasn’t on the field Monday for the start of mandatory minicamp.
Is it the end of the world? No, but spring practices are especially important for new players who need to get up to speed in a new offense.