“Set the table for Mac Jones’ regression” – NFL analyst claims Patriots HC Bill Belichick's decision met with eye rolls

The New England Patriots were in the headlines all day on Tuesday, April 4, as rumors went around that Bill Belichick and the team have shopped quarterback Mac Jones.

Jones and Belichick reportedly have lingering tension from how the former handled things on the field. This is in regards to the QB yelling during games and seeking out Alabama staffers on what he could do to help the Patriots' offense out.

While the finger can be pointed at Jones, some think it's Belichick to blame for the Pats' down year last season. Boston writer Mike Giardi mentioned a source who feels that Bill Belichick's decisions last year "set the table for Mac's regression."

"Talked to many people about this. To a man, those who have seen/felt this roll their eyes. One source said to me, 'I don't know what Bill (Belichick) thought was going to happen. The decisions he made set the table for Mac's regression. For the entire offensive regression.'"

"The offensive dysfunction was felt on all levels of the offense and by all position groups. There were coaches who knew that this system/play calling/play design was not up to previous standards set in Foxboro with Josh McDaniels in charge."

He added:

"The players felt it. And lastly, on a personal note, I have no horse in the race. I don't give a damn who starts. Mac. Zappe. QB to be named later. Does. Not. Matter. Although if you whiffed on a 1st round QB, that is fair game to dissect."

Last season, Bill Belichick gave Jones a defensive coach and a special teams coach to run the offense, and he regressed. The team is now looking to trade him after just two seasons on the team.

Could the New England Patriots and Bill Belichick acquire Lamar Jackson amid Mac Jones trade talks?

Lamar Jackson Baltimore Ravens v New England Patriots

Lamar Jackson is looking to be traded from the Baltimore Ravens this off-season. He officially requested a trade from the Ravens on March 2, after the two sides couldn't agree to terms on a long-term deal.

Perhaps the Patriots could be interested in acquiring Jackson if they are able to trade Jones? Or maybe, they could package Jones in a deal with the Ravens for Jackson.

Owner Robert Kraft recently said that Jackson wants to join the team and even rapper Meek Mill is pushing for the team to go after Jackson.

Kraft reiterated that Bill Belichick is in charge of the roster and it will be up to him if the team goes after Jackson or not.

Do you think Bill Belichick and the Patriots should make a run for Lamar Jackson?