ESPN’s Field Yates makes argument for Patriots to target Trey Lance over Mac Jones

Mobility is a key element that Mac Jones is lacking.

The New England Patriots have a little over a week to decide how they want to pursue the 2021 NFL Draft.

Cam Newton is currently at the helm and will likely start to begin the season regardless of the outcome in the draft. But, the Patriots still need a signal-caller for the future and this year presents talented players who could fit that role. The top 5 guys include Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson, Justin Fields, Mac Jones and Trey Lance.

Lawrence and Wilson will be gone after the first two picks, but the Patriots have the potential to trade out of the No. 15 overall pick and select one of the three remaining. There’s a high possibility the San Francisco 49ers snag Fields at pick No. 3 — leaving Jones and Lance for the Patriots to choose from.

New England has scouted all five prospects heavily and Jones’ name has been connected to the Patriots throughout the process. ESPN’s Field Yates discussed the topic on “Get Up” Tuesday and believes the Patriots should go with Lance.

“I am trading up for Trey Lance,” Yates said. “I just see a significantly higher ceiling for this player. Mac Jones fits the confines for what the Patriots have had under center for 20 of the last 21 years. Obviously, last year being the exception. You have to look at the direction the NFL is evolving right now. You had eight quarterbacks rush for over 400 yards last season.

“The Patriots, within their own division, saw Josh Allen make major strides last year. Yes, he’s a gifted thrower, but where he can really torture you is one second reaction plays. Even if his first read is not there or if there is pressure in the pocket, Josh Allen might run towards the sideline like he’s running out of bounds and the next thing you know, he’ll launch the football 24 yards down the field to Stefon Diggs. The game is changing. Trey Lance offers the ability to keep up with how the game is changing.”

ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky gave a little more detail regarding Lance’s skills and how it will translate to the NFL.

There are multiple teams who are reportedly willing to trade down, but it all depends on the price Belichick is willing to pay.

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