Whether Mac Jones will be the starting quarterback for the New England Patriots in the coming season has been the subject of much discussion. Now the playmaker himself spoke out and spoke full of anticipation about the upcoming season.

“We’re all looking forward to the year, and that starts with all of us rolling up our sleeves and getting to work,” Jones told “Boston.com.” We’ve got a great bunch together and it’s going to come down to all of us – coaches, players, everybody – coming together as a team. “

Jones looking forward to O’Brien

The Pats playmaker was also exclusively positive about the new offensive coordinator. “I’m looking forward to working with Bill O’Brien. I know we all do and it’s going to be a great year. We just have to work hard for it, though.”

Last season, the Patriots’ offensive playcalling looked anything but good. After the departure of Josh McDaniels, Matt Patricia took over that playcalling role – to no avail. Now O’Brien is expected to get Jones and Co. back on track.

This is gonna be Gillette when Mac Jones and Mike Gesicki hit their first dual-griddy: pic.twitter.com/uHzItqiB6V

– Mike Kadlick (@mikekadlick) April 17, 2023

Jones shows optimism

The 24-year-old quarterback himself also struggled last season (14 touchdowns to 11 interceptions in 2022) after a promising rookie season in 2021. That’s another reason why head coach Bill Belichick wouldn’t confirm Jones will be the starter until now.

Bailey Zappe can also still have hopes for this job.

Jones, meanwhile, is optimistic: “The offseason was good. I think it’s important to reflect on everything. I gave a lot and I’m really looking forward to getting back to work with the guys soon. “