Mac Jones recently joined the Jacksonville Jaguars via a trade with the New England Patriots. After a non-ideal start to his career, Jones will now be the backup in Jacksonville. The former Alabama star is set to make $15.5 million in 2024, but the Jaguars declined the 5th-year option that would have earned him $25.6 million next season.
Though he hasn’t been able to find success so far in his career, being in a different system may help. Jones played phenomenally in the preseason, but unless something happens to QB1 Trevor Lawrence, he will be spending this season on the sidelines.
Mac Jones Fantasy Upside
On the upside, Mac Jones could potentially see playing time this season. After an impressive preseason, he looks to have found his second wind in Jacksonville. Though it will depend on the health and performance of Lawrence, Jones may get the chance he needs to boost his career.
Lawrence and the Jaguars started scorching hot last season, quickly improving to a record of 8-3. Following the start, however, the team fell apart and eventually took themselves out of playoff contention. While it is unlikely that the Jaguars will be unable to find success this season, last year’s struggles may be enough to keep Jones a thought.
Another upside if he does find playing time is his surrounding cast. Travis Etienne, Christian Kirk, Evan Engram, and offseason addition Gabriel Davis round out the stacked Jacksonville offense.
During his time in New England, Jones never had the offensive support that is now available to him. Due to his reputation and spot on the depth chart, Jones will likely go undrafted in all leagues, creating a zero risk for fantasy owners.
Mac Jones’ Fantasy Downside
On the downside, Mac Jones could be on the sidelines all season. Lawrence has more than proven himself as a franchise quarterback and is undoubtedly the future of the organization. Lawrence also has no serious or lingering injury history that could ultimately lead to him missing time. Though this is probably the best chance at success Jones has had during his career, he will likely be doing it as a backup.
Another downside is Jones’ play history. After a solid rookie campaign, his numbers continuously decreased in productivity. While the Patriots were in the post-Tom Brady era, and in a rebuild, Jones could never meet the expectations in New England. Thanks to his draft projection and circumstances, Jones will likely stay off of fantasy rosters this season.
Final Thoughts
Although his performance in the preseason turned heads, his prior career has earned him the backup role. He has shown peaks and glimpses of how good he could possibly be, but consistency has haunted him. After having his 5th-year option declined, the young quarterback will enter free agency after this season. He utilized his preseason time effectively, and given the chance, he could prove to other teams that he is more than a backup. The question is will he get his chance to prove himself?
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