Michael McCorkle Jones Bio
Michael McCorkle “Mac” Jones is an American professional football quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Alabama Crimson Tide, setting impressive NCAA records for passer rating and completion percentage. Jones was drafted by the New England Patriots in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft. After a successful rookie season, he faced challenges in subsequent seasons before transitioning between teams. Jones is recognized for his notable achievements, including Pro Bowl honors, cementing his status in the league.
Early Life and Background
Michael McCorkle Jones was born on September 5, 1998, to Gordon and Holly Jones in Jacksonville, Florida. His father played tennis at Florida State University and Flagler College. Mac’s brother, Will, played soccer at Mercer University, while his sister Sarah Jane played tennis for the College of Charleston. Jones worked as a child model and actor, appearing in commercials. He played high school football at The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Florida, under head coach Corky Rogers. As a junior in 2015, Jones led Bolles to the state regional final. As a senior in 2016, he led Bolles to the Florida 4A title, throwing for 1,532 yards and 29 touchdowns.
Path to American Football
After originally committing to the University of Kentucky, Jones accepted a scholarship offer from the University of Alabama to play for the Crimson Tide. He arrived as an early enrollee but was redshirted his freshman season in 2017. During his time at Alabama, Jones faced challenges, including a DUI charge that led to a suspension. However, he quickly made a name for himself, throwing for 289 yards and two touchdowns in the Crimson Tide’s spring game, earning A-Day MVP honors. In the following seasons, he became a key player, eventually taking over as the starting quarterback for Alabama in 2020. Jones led Alabama to a national championship victory in 2021, showcasing his talent and solidifying his position as a top quarterback prospect.
Michael McCorkle Jones Career
Early Career (2021)
Jones was selected 15th overall by the New England Patriots in the 2021 NFL draft. He signed a four-year rookie contract worth $15.6 million fully guaranteed. Following the preseason, Jones was named the Patriots’ starter for the 2021 season, becoming the first rookie quarterback to start a season opener for the team since Drew Bledsoe in 1993. In his NFL debut, Jones completed 29-of-39 passes for 281 yards and made his first touchdown pass to wide receiver Nelson Agholor during a narrow loss to the Miami Dolphins. He set the NFL completion percentage record for a debuting rookie at 74.4%. Jones finished his rookie season with 3,801 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and a 67.6 completion percentage, leading the Patriots to a playoff berth and earning Pro Bowl honors.
Breakthrough (2022-2023)
In 2022, Jones faced challenges with a new offensive scheme and struggled early in the season, throwing several interceptions. He suffered an ankle injury that sidelined him for three games. Upon his return, he had mixed performances, leading to a decline in his statistics compared to his rookie season. In 2023, Jones was benched multiple times and ultimately finished the season with 2,120 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. His struggles led to a trade to the Jacksonville Jaguars in March 2024.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Jones has achieved significant milestones, including being named to the Pro Bowl in 2021 and earning several prestigious awards during his college career, such as the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and the Davey O’Brien Award. His performance in college football set numerous NCAA records, and he is recognized as one of the top quarterback prospects of his draft class.
Michael McCorkle Jones Award Nominations
Michael McCorkle Jones has received several nominations throughout his career, particularly during his time at Alabama and in his rookie season with the New England Patriots. His accolades include being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2021 and receiving Pro Bowl honors.
Michael McCorkle Jones Awards Won
Jones has won multiple awards, including the Pro Bowl selection in 2021 and several college football awards in 2020, such as the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, Davey O’Brien Award, and Manning Award. He was also recognized as a Consensus All-American in 2020.
| Award | Wins | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Pro Bowl | 1 | 2021 |
| PFWA All-Rookie Team | 1 | 2021 |
| Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award | 1 | 2020 |
| Davey O’Brien Award | 1 | 2020 |
| Manning Award | 1 | 2020 |
| Consensus All-American | 1 | 2020 |
Michael McCorkle Jones Family
Michael McCorkle Jones was born to Gordon and Holly Jones. His family has a strong athletic background, with his father playing tennis at the collegiate level and his siblings also participating in sports.
Personal Life
Jones was nicknamed “the Joker” in college for his playful demeanor and habit of having fun with teammates. In August 2021, he signed an endorsement deal with NoBull, a Boston-based athletic shoe and apparel company.
