Mac Jones clarifies postgame comments on Patriots teammates dedication

Patriots quarterback Mac Jones calls out his teammates for lack of effort after loss to Dolphins, emphasizes need for improvement.

After the New England Patriots' disappointing loss to the Miami Dolphins on Sunday night, quarterback Mac Jones made a comment that caught the attention of local sports radio talk show hosts. Jones' statement was interpreted as a call-out to his teammates, suggesting that they need to step up their game.

Following the 24-17 loss, Jones stated, "Definitely got to play better and learn from it and be here early and leave late and do it together. I think that's the biggest thing. If a couple guys are doing it, it's not good enough, clearly."

Jones was later asked about these comments on WEEI's "Jones and Mego with Arcand" show. Host Adam Jones probed further, questioning whether Jones was implying a lack of effort from his fellow Patriots.

To this, Jones responded emphatically, "No. I mean it's no. I'm talking about being close so, whatever you're doing, just do more. It's not like it's rocket science. If you watch 30 minutes of film, watch an hour. If you lift for 45 minutes, lift for an hour and a half. Just whatever you can do so what when we're in this situation - you know for me, that's how I feel better about everything. You can only put in so much work."

Jones also explained his mindset after the game, revealing that he was deep in reflection, still sitting at his locker in full uniform with a towel over his head, nearly 20 minutes after the final whistle had blown.

"Mostly just reflection," Jones shared. "Just trying to be where your feet are. Realize it's a great game we get to play but at the same time, you want to win because it's not as fun when you don't win. Just trying to gather my thoughts before I got to the podium or something like that."

He continued, "But really just how can I lead the team throughout the week really the next week is what I'm thinking about. What can I do better? What can I do better? It starts with me as a quarterback. I know we have a great group of guys. It's now about that. It's just a couple unlucky breaks here or there and we're 2-0. Just have to keep pushing."

The Patriots have had opportunities to win or tie in both of their games this season, but they have fallen short. Additionally, they have struggled with early turnovers that have put them at a disadvantage.

Looking ahead to their upcoming game against the New York Jets, the Patriots understand the importance of avoiding costly errors. This game has taken on an early must-win status, and the team is determined to bounce back and secure a victory.