“What is the plan for Kraft and company?” - Kay Adams slams Patriots amid rumors of rift between Bill Belichick and Mac Jones

Mac Jones is allegedly being shopped around in the trade market during the 2023 NFL offseason. The shocking development comes as a result of his disappointing 2022 NFL season. He significantly regressed in almost every statistical category during his second year in the league after a promising rookie campaign.

The New England Patriots are apparently exploring their quarterback options for the upcoming 2023 NFL season as they seem to have lost some of their faith in Mac Jones. While nothing has been officially decided upon when it comes to Jones' future as the Patriots' starting quarterback, his chances of securing the job appear to be declining.

Kay Adams recently spoke on an episode of "Up & Adams" about what this could mean for the Patriots' quarterback position for the upcoming 2023 NFL season:

"Things are a bit spicy in New England. This is PFT, this is Mike Florio reporting yesterday the Patriots are shopping Mac. I'm surprised by this, not because Mac, you know, doesn't deserve to be shocked. I mean he has had some legit promising moments so far in his young career, but really more so because what is the plan for Kraft and company up there?

"What do they do if they get rid of him? Apparently this is a result of things getting a little 'not cute' between Belichick and Mac. … This is ugly, it's really ugly and I don't know, even if he stays there, how does it not get uglier?"

Adams referenced the circling story of how things have taken a bit of a down turn in regards to the relationship between Mac Jones and Bill Belichick. It could very well be the head coach who is pushing the Patriots to go in a different direction. They missed out on the NFL Playoffs last year, so he is likely willing to do whatever it takes to get back there this season.

Who will be the Patriots QB in 2023 if Mac Jones is traded?

Bill Belichick and Mac Jones

While it's unclear what direction the Patriots will turn if they do in fact move on from Mac Jones, they seem to have several options. Bailey Zappe did a solid job filling in last year when the starter was injured, so he could earn another look. If they go outside the franchise, the trade market and the 2023 NFL Draft seem to make the most sense.

The Patriots have been connected to several trade rumors involving Lamar Jackson, so they might be interested in pivoting the direction of their franchise to a proven veteran. They could also look to the draft in a year where the class of prospects is loaded with talent at the position. They currently own the 14th overall pick, but could potentially try to move up.