Is Mac Jones The Patriots' Starting Quarterback in 2023? Fantasy Football Outlook

New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones had a disappointing sophomore season after a solid rookie campaign, and fourth-round rookie quarterback Bailey Zappe showed promise in the relief of a banged-up Jones.

Naturally, a quarterback controversy has been discussed but is there any merit to the uncertainty about Jones' job security?

How did Jones perform in 2022 and could he start for the Patriots in 2023? Let's dive in.

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Mac Jones 2022 Season Review

In 2022, Jones posted a 6-8 record as a starter, completing 288 of his 442 passing attempts (65.2 percent) for 2,997 yards, 14 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. He regressed in every statistical passing category from his rookie season, but a lot of the struggles are attributed to the change from Josh McDaniels to Matt Patricia as offensive coordinator.

Meanwhile, Zappe completed 65 of his 92 passing attempts (70.7 percent) for 781 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. He won both of his starts against the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns but struggled in relief of Jones in Week 7 against the Chicago Bears.

Ultimately, Jones was handed back the keys to the offense and Zappe did not appear in a game after Week 7. However, some Patriots fans believe Zappe should have gotten more opportunities.

Is Mac Jones The Patriots' Starting Quarterback in 2023?

Jones, the team's 2021 first-round pick, is still expected to be the team's starter in 2023. Multiple people involved in the situation who weren't authorized to speak publicly are calling it Jones' job to lose, but Zappe will have a chance to push Jones. Jones was second in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting in 2021, but he struggled along with the rest of the offense last year.

The Patriots hope that the move to Bill O'Brien as offensive coordinator will return Jones to success. There's no guarantee that Jones will bounce back in 2023, especially if New England doesn't spend on a high-end receiver in free agency.

Fantasy managers should consider him a low-ceiling QB2 in drafts this fall. Zappe should continue to be stashed on deep dynasty rosters, as Jones could have a shorter leash this season.

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