The New England Patriots QB1 battle is getting fierce as ever, with Mac Jones and Cam Newton both vying for the starting job. However, head coach Bill Belichick refuses to commit to either player as his Week 1 starter.
“I don't have a timetable on that. I can't tell you.”
A very limited response from the Patriots head coach. Newton just returned to training camp on Thursday after missing time due to COVID-19. Jones flourished in his absence, putting together an impressive showing in a joint practice with the Giants on Wednesday.
Newton and Jones have both seen snaps in preseason action, but the former Alabama standout has been given more. He's completed 13 of 19 attempts in each game so far, but Jones is yet to throw his first NFL touchdown for the Patriots.
Belichick probably has a good idea of who he will roll out as the starting quarterback in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins, he just won't let anyone know quite yet. But, it will ultimately be a hard decision with Newton and Jones showing well.
It makes more sense for Belichick to choose the veteran in Newton, however, Jones is clearly making his case that he's ready to be a key piece for the Patriots in year one.