What It Means:

When incumbent starter Cam Newton suffered a hand injury during offseason camp, many assumed it would "pro-ready" 2021 NFL Draft first-round pick Mac Jones that would step up as the Patriots' top quarterback in Newton's stead. However, Jones has reportedly taken a backseat to teammate Jarrett Stidham so far since Newton's injury. Stidham has reportedly been the first quarterback to lead off each drill so far since Newton's injury, while Jones has alternated second- and third-team reps with veteran Brian Hoyer.

Coming out of Alabama, Jones was hailed by some as one of the most pro-ready quarterbacks in this year's draft. It's unclear at this point whether the Pats are making the rookie pay his dues or if his placement in the camp rotations is an early red flag for his fantasy prospects. Our early projections features Jones as a part-time starter for the 2021 season, completing 159 of 253 attempts for 1734 yards, 10.9 touchdowns, and 7.7 interceptions.