Foxboro, Mass. — New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick mentioned he is seen «dramatic enchancment» from quarterback Mack Jones as he enters his second NFL season.
«He’s made large progress,» Belichick mentioned Tuesday morning, the day earlier than the Patriots’ first official follow of coaching camp.
«He did an excellent job final 12 months, however he is beginning at a a lot, a lot increased level this 12 months than the place he began final 12 months. His offseason work has been exceptional, and I feel everyone understands how effectively he prepares and That’s how far he goes. That was over a 12 months in the past.»
Belichick cited Jones’ work ethic and famous that he is observed a dramatic enchancment in his «bodywork and conditioning, mechanics, footwork, understanding of our offense. [and] Adversary Defense.»
Jones reported to camp Thursday, together with fellow quarterback Brian Hoyer, so he is face to face with most of his teammates, who reported Tuesday for his or her conditioning assessments.
At this time final 12 months, Jones was competing with Cam Newton for the beginning job. Jones ultimately took over the function, beginning all 17 video games and serving to the Patriots to a ten–7 report and wild-card playoff berth (47–17 loss to the Buffalo Bills).
He completed his rookie season with 3,801 yards on 352-of-521 passing with 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.
«We’re a lot additional alongside in the dialog [offensively],» Belichick mentioned. «The performs we speak about or the concepts we speak about, Mac has already performed it. It’s simple for him to say, ‘Are we going to do that? Are we going to do it in one thing else? What do you concentrate on splitting them up a bit? Splitting them up a little bit tighter.’ Such a suggestion.
«And we now have a greater really feel for what he can do, what his strengths are and tips on how to attempt to play into them. He’s self-aware. He is aware of what he does effectively. We wish to attempt to present that.»
Coaches are taking part in a big function in doing that after Jones’ offensive coordinator, Josh McDaniels, left final 12 months to develop into the top coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. Former Detroit Lions head coach Matt Patricia (senior soccer advisor/offensive line) and former New York Giants head coach Joe Judge (offensive assistant/quarterback) performed main roles in the Patriots’ spring practices, with Belichick additionally closely concerned.
«I feel I’ve mentioned it many occasions, Matt and Joe are two excellent coaches in each sense of the phrase,» Belichick mentioned. «Whatever these tasks contain, they’re excellent, distinctive throughout the gamut. I’m glad we now have each.»
Belichick, whereas not naming an official offensive coordinator, mentioned Thursday, «We’re probably not large on titles and all that. It’s vital that all of us work collectively and create last product. That’s what we’ll attempt to do. It’s what we have at all times performed. «
Ultimately, will probably be clear which coach calls the offensive play, however Belichick will get flustered when requested if it is vital to make him official.
«Look, I’m a head coach,» he mentioned. «Ultimately I’m answerable for every part. So let it go.»