Mac Jones to Start for Patriots in Week 8

NFL Week 8 - After keeping tight-lipped about the decision early in the week, ESPN's Field Yates reports that the New England Patriots will start Mac Jones against the New York Jets in Week 8. Yates added that Jones took "90% of the first teams reps" during today's practice.  

Jones was sidelined for three weeks with a high ankle sprain and elected not to get surgery in favor of expediting his return. Fourth-round pick Bailey Zappe, who replaced veteran backup Brian Hoyer after sustaining a concussion during a loss to the Green Bay Packers, took over starting duties and helped the Patriots to two wins over the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns. 

Jones started Monday's game against the Chicago Bears, making three completions for six attempts for 19 yards and an interception on the three drives he played in. Zappe entered the game following a Jones interception that may have been altered by a SkyCam wire.  Belichick said after the game that the team planned for Jones to not play the entire game. 

Jones posted a 6.1% DVOA in his first full season with the Patriots in 2021, but currently has a -19.0% DVOA in the games he's appeared in this season. Zappe, who does not have enough pass attempts to qualify for 2022 rankings, has a DVOA of 5.0% on 98 passes this year.