Ex-Patriots QB Mac Jones Reaps Benefits Of Jaguars Roster Move

Mac Jones was the star of the preseason for the Jaguars, and he was rewarded for his play.

Jacksonville on Tuesday announced its roster moves to cut down its roster to 53 players. One of those moves was to release quarterback C.J. Beathard on an injury designation. The transaction cemented Jones as the backup quarterback behind Trevor Lawrence.

Jones had a strong preseason leading all signal-callers in passer rating, and he was third in passing touchdowns. The 25-year-old’s play caused Doug Pederson to take an apparent shot at the Patriots. His play also divided New England fans over how impressed they were about his preseason play, but some fans were happy to see Jones thrive after he went through what they believed to be unfair treatment during his three-year Patriots career.

Beathard suffered a groin injury during the Jaguars’ second preseason game, which allowed Jones to play the majority of Jacksonville’s preseason finale. E.J. Perry was signed as the team’s third quarterback, and he was waived Tuesday likely with the hope he’ll pass waivers and sign onto the practice squad.

Lawrence played 16 or more games in the first three seasons of his NFL career, so it’s unlikely Jones will play much this season. But Pederson seems confident enough in the Alabama product to call his number whenever needed.