“Sophomore Slump” is when a player, after a great first season, struggles in year two. It’s not always the players fault, once the rest of the league is used to their talent and style, they can adjust and be ready for the young player.
The Hype This Year
It’s “best shape of my life” season and Mac Jones showed off his preparation for the upcoming season.
https://twitter.com/CourtneyFallon_/status/1542696698740367360
Whenever you hear this phrase or read about it, usually an eye roll follows. However, if the talks surrounding Jones last year are any indication, he means it when he shows off his physique.
https://twitter.com/BarstoolBigCat/status/1348849875291688965
Usually the toughest part of “rookie year” for Patriots rookies is learning and understanding how to “Do your job”. Second year quarterback Mac Jones spent enough time last year struggling with the extremely complicated Patriots playbook. Everything else now should come easier, as we’ve seen how it has affected players in the past.
Lots of veteran receivers have come and gone through New England, rumors have always surrounded the circumstances, insinuating playbook struggles.
Former NFL receiver Chad Ochocinco back in 2018 explained on Barstool Sports’ KFC Radio, why he didn’t work with the Patriots. They didn’t prefer the type of receiver he is and the complicated verbiage in the playbook made it a bad fit.
Responsibilities Jones had to learn his first year in the league, he doesn’t have to worry about now. He has been able to focus more on building or improving connections with new and old teammates, not so much on figuring out the logistics of Boston or how to balance his lifestyle and his job, etc.
Last year he had a completion percentage of 67.6, with 3801 yards, 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. Expect better stats this year, with less interceptions, as he had a couple of “stinkers” last season.
He should cut down on those types of performances as he has less to worry about, avoiding the sophomore slump.
Check out these articles about offensive and defensive training camp battles to watch for. Alongside the announcement of 25 semifinalists for the 2023 NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame induction, owner Robert Kraft was among them.
