Mac Jones Reportedly Has ‘Short Leash’ For Patriots Vs Raiders

The New England Patriots will meet the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday and it is one of the biggest game so far in the season. Head coach Bill Belichick will coach against his former offensive coordinator and yes, it is really exciting. Quarterback Mac Jones is the main topic again and will be under a big pressure in the Patriots vs Raiders game. Wonder why?

Ian Rapoport says that the Patriots quarterback will be on a short leash. If his struggles continue, head coach Belichick will bench him again. Who will replace him as a quarterback? Rapoport didn’t have any details on this one.

Sources reveal that Patriots quarterbacks split reps in practice this week. Bailey Zappe and Will Grier got their reps and this puts Jones in an uncomfortable position. Zappe replaced Jones, but Grier seems like a good option for the team.

“New England Patriots coaches have stood by starting quarterback Mac Jones, supporting him despite his struggles on the field the past two weeks. With a rough start today against the Raiders, however, that could change.

“Sources say Jones is on a short leash, and a poor opening few series could potentially trigger another QB to take snaps in Las Vegas. It’s just not entirely clear who would take those snaps if Jones is benched.”

#Patriots QB Mac Jones is expected to start today, but he'll do so on a short-leash. And behind him at QB, it could get interesting.

My story: https://t.co/m6dApedSqn

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 15, 2023

Jones could be replaced by a new signee in the Patriots vs Raiders match

The Patriots got Grier from the Cincinnati Bengals early in the season. He did a decent performance in the preseason and Belichick likes his potential. Grier could turn into a real threat for the Alabama quarterback.

Enter Malik Cunningham. He can play quarterback and receiver and Belichick prefers the second option. New England has enough quarterbacks and some of their receivers are dealing with injuries. Cunningham may be more comfortable at receiver and the Patriots have already signed him to a three-year deal. He moved from the practice unit to the active roster and once again, he could be the best option at quarterback. Remember his touchdown pass in the preseason?