Bill Belichick: No decision made on Patriots QB competition

The Patriots’ preseason is over, but Bill Belichick says he still hasn’t decided whether Cam Newton or Mac Jones will start at quarterback Week 1.

“No,” Belichick said after Sunday’s preseason finale against the Giants. “We still have a lot of decisions to make.”

Minutes later, Jones dodged when asked if he expects to start the Pats’ regular-season opener against Miami on Sept. 12.

“Like I always say, I’m just focused on today,” he said.

Jones added he’s improved this summer and seen plenty of opportunity. The first-round rookie was the only quarterback to take reps with the starting offense in three practices this week, when Newton was sidelined after breaking the NFL’s COVID-19 protocols. He went 10-of-14 for 156 yards and a touchdown against the Giants on Sunday. Jones also took four sacks.

“I think I’ve made progress,” Jones said, “but honestly the only thing that matters is today.”

Jones did say he’ll prepare like he’s the starter moving forward, something he’s done since a young age. Newton started every preseason game this summer and went 2-of-5 for 10 yards and an interception Sunday. Newton was not made available to reporters.

Tight end Devin Asiasi had a glowing review of the rookie in his post-game press conference.

“He’s great, he’s a great quarterback,” Asiasi said. “I like his confidence already, the way he conducts the huddle out on the field.”

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/3ytE6tl