The New England Patriots moved on from quarterback Mac Jones this offseason after a strong rookie and two horrendous years to follow.
In his three seasons in New England, he completed 66.1% of his passes for 8,918 yards, 46 touchdowns and 36 interceptions. He led his team to a playoff berth in 2021 and secured a spot in the Pro Bowl, but things only got worse from there, leading the team to trade the quarterback to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a sixth-round pick.
Due to his struggles on the field, Jones was often criticized by fans and the media, including former Patriots linebacker Rob Ninkovich.
On Ninkovich's podcast, "The Dan and Ninko Show," co-host Dan O'Brien reminded Ninkovich that Jones isn't his biggest fan, and the linebacker didn't hold back.
"I don't give a (expletive)," Ninkovich said. "I'll smack the (expletive) out of (expletive) Mac Jones. I don't care. Do you care if somebody doesn't like you? Exactly. (expletive) him. I hope he has a great career as a backup and makes a ton of money."
Ninkovich then went into the comparisons between Jones and rookie quarterback Drake Maye, and he continued taking shots at the former quarterback.
"It didn't work out. They needed a change," Ninkovich said. "The demeanor alone between Mac Jones and Drake Maye are completely different. 'Yeah, you know. I just have to keep working and gotta get better. I'm just gonna keep working hard, everybody together. It wasn't my best, and I have to be better.' Over and over and over again. I'd rather listen to Drake Maye talk than 'Yeah, my modeling career didn't work out so now I'm back down here in Jacksonville...' I needed some more nuts."
These are some harsh words from one former Patriot to another. Time will tell how Maye will deal with the adversity and the NFL level.
It will be interesting to hear if Jones is asked about this and how he responds if he is.
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