NFL Draft: Mac Jones to New England, joins ex-Auburn QBs

From 3-star prospect to a first-round pick, Mac Jones finally heard his name called Thursday night.

The once over-looked high school recruit slipped to the No. 15 overall pick in the NFL Draft, going to the New England Patriots after starting last year at Alabama. Long suspected to be the No. 3 pick to the San Francisco, the 49ers opted for North Dakota State’s Trey Lance instead of Jones.

The Jacksonville product was the fifth quarterback selected after Trevor Lawrence (1), Zach Wilson (2) Lance (3) and Justin Fields 11) went earlier Thursday. He’ll be reunited with former teammate and close friend Damien Harris in New England.

With the Patriots, he’ll join a depth chart with two former Auburn starters in Cam Newton and Jarrett Stidham.

Jones is now the second-highest pick in the modern era of the NFL draft by an Alabama quarterback after Tua Tagovailoa was the No. 5 selection last year to the Miami Dolphins. Harry Gilmer was the No. 1 overall pick at QB in 1948 when Washington selected him and Joe Namath was the top pick in the 1965 AFL draft.

The No. 3 overall pick ties Jones for the highest pick in the Nick Saban era regardless of position. Marcell Dareus (2011), Trent Richardson (2012) and Quinnen Williams (2019) were also the third players selected in their respective years.

After waiting his turn, the once-overlooked recruit exploded in his redshirt junior season. Leading Alabama to an undefeated national title, the Heisman Trophy second runner-up passed for 4,500 yards while completing 77.4% of his throws.

Jones’ draft stock rose after the season as he drew comparisons to Tom Brady and Drew Brees for his cerebral approach to the game.

6. Jaylen Waddle, Miami Dolphins

9. Patrick Surtain, Denver Broncos

10. DeVonta Smith, Philadelphia Eagles

15. Mac Jones, New England Patriots

Note to readers: if you purchase something through one of our affiliate links we may earn a commission.