In a surprising move, the New England Patriots have reportedly agreed to trade quarterback Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The decision comes after the Patriots explored trade options during the NFL Scouting Combine and finalized the deal prior to the start of the league's legal tampering period.

According to reports, the Patriots will receive a sixth-round pick from the Jaguars once the trade is completed. However, it seems that New England had initially hoped for a better return when they made the decision to part ways with Jones.

Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer revealed that the Patriots received the offer of a sixth-round pick on Friday and then tried to shop around for a fifth-round pick. Despite efforts to negotiate a better deal, the Patriots were unable to secure a fifth-round pick for Jones, as confirmed by other teams interested in acquiring the quarterback.

It is possible that the Patriots accepted Jacksonville's offer due to a lack of alternative options. While there were reportedly four teams interested in Jones, only the Jaguars presented a concrete offer for the 2021 first-rounder, according to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones.

Nonetheless, the Patriots seem unperturbed by the return package. After two disappointing seasons, it was evidently time for both New England and Jones to part ways and embark on new paths.

As the Patriots bid farewell to Jones, they now face the task of finding a suitable backup plan. Speculation suggests that they could explore other options, and one name that has surfaced is that of wide receiver Calvin Ridley. While no concrete discussions have been reported, the Patriots may consider adding the talented receiver to their roster to bolster their offensive firepower.

With the trade of Mac Jones to the Jaguars now in motion, the Patriots organization is hard at work, looking to secure their backup plan and rebuild their team for the upcoming season. Fans eagerly await further developments to see what moves the Patriots will make next.