Heading into Week 8, New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones is set to fully return as QB1. But Jones, who suffered a high ankle sprain earlier in the season may still be feeling the effects.

Jones is reportedly being impacted by the injury that occurred over a month ago.

Via NFL Network’s Mike Giardi:

“Per source, #Patriots QB Mac Jones is dealing with numbness in the toes on his left foot as he continues to recover from the left ankle injury that sidelined him for 3 weeks. It didn't impact Mac's on-field prep for the #Jets but keep an eye on it. #Bears noticed some favoring.”

In Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens, Jones went down with his ankle injury. He made his return in Week 7, but struggles in the first half led to him returning to the bench.

When Jones initially went down, backup quarterback Brian Hoyer stepped in as the starter. A concussion in Week 4 led to him being placed on injured reserve.

This led to Zappe stepping into the starting role.

Article Continues Below
More New England Patriots News
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel (center) with Eastern Washington receiver Efton Chism III (left) and Patriots cornerback Kobee Minor (right)
3 New England Patriots hidden gems on 2025 roster you need to knowJaren Kawada ·
Oct 27, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) walks towards the sideline before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Patriots rumors: Stefon Diggs being cut ‘on the table’ amid viral videoMike Gianakos ·
Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) warms up prior to the game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Stefon Diggs’ future hinges on truth over boat party says Albert BreerJake Faigus ·
New England Patriots guard Cole Strange (69) defends against Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Neil Farrell Jr. (93) at Allegiant Stadium.
Patriots rumors: Controversial 1st-Round pick on chopping block to be cutConor Roche ·
New England Patriots center David Andrews (60) watches from the sideline during the first half against the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium.
2-time Super Bowl champion retires after 10 seasons with PatriotsConor Roche ·
Sep 24, 2017; Detroit, MI, USA; Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank before the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-Imagn Images
Falcons send fans into frenzy after immediately deleting ’28-3′ postMike Gianakos ·

When on the field, Zappe has shown flashes of talent. He is 2-0 when starting, and has now appeared in four games.

The Patriots offense has looked vastly different when either quarterback is playing. Play Calling has shifted significantly when Zappe is on the field, leading to the offense opening up.

Zappe has thrown for 781 passing yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions this season.

Jones has had struggles moving the ball, throwing for 799 passing yards, two touchdowns, and six interceptions,

Amid his struggles, the Patriots seemed prepared to give Jones another opportunity to earn back the QB1 job, even after pulling him after just one-quarter last week. But if his ankle continues to impact him, Zappe could potentially earn a starting nod, even with Jones healthy. It will be something worth keeping an eye on in Week 8.