Jags declining QB Jones’ 2025 fifth-year option

Michael DiRocco, ESPN Staff WriterApr 30, 2024, 02:54 PM ET
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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jaguars are not picking up the fifth-year option on quarterback Mac Jones, an unsurprising move since the team acquired him to compete for a backup spot behind Trevor Lawrence.

The team picked up Lawrence’s fifth-year option, as well as that of running back Travis Etienne Jr., on Monday.

The Jaguars sent a 2024 sixth-round pick to the New England Patriots in March for Jones and plan for him to compete with C.J. Beathard to be Lawrence’s backup this season and potentially beyond. Lawrence was the No. 1 overall pick in 2021 and Jones was drafted 14 spots later.

Jones — who grew up in Jacksonville — completed 66.1% of his passes for 8,918 yards and 46 touchdowns with 36 interceptions in three seasons with the Patriots. He led New England to the playoffs as a rookie, throwing for 3,801 yards and 22 touchdowns with 13 interceptions and making the Pro Bowl as an alternate.

He struggled the next two seasons and was benched after 11 games last season for Bailey Zappe.