"Mac Jones' Future with Patriots Uncertain Amid Trade Rumors and Starting Spot Competition"

According to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, the Patriots coaching staff doesn't see a "massive chasm" between Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe, and both quarterbacks will have a chance to compete for the starting spot during training camp. While Jones has the physical edge, Zappe has shown promise as a rookie and closed the gap in football smarts by following the coach when Jones didn't. Jones' stats last season were underwhelming, but he earned Pro-Bowl honors as a rookie in 2021 and should rebound with Bill O'Brien running New England's offense in 2023.