Each of the last two years, the New England Patriots’ offseason was dominated by questions about the starting quarterback role. In 2020, Tom Brady’s free agency status was the biggest unknown for the organization. One year later, the long-term outlook at the most important position came into focus.
The Patriots were able to answer their quarterback questions in 2021, selecting Mac Jones in the first round of the draft. Jones’ impressive rookie season left no question that he is the player around whom the organization will build its roster. That said, given the importance of the position relative to every other on the field, it still is a point of emphasis heading into the offseason.