NFL: Patriots without Mac Jones against the Giants

New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones and most of the team’s starters are not expected to play Thursday night’s preseason game against the New York Giants, reports ESPN.

The Patriots have joint practice next week with the Carolina Panthers, followed by a preseason game against them.

Then the following week, the team flies to Las Vegas for joint training with the Raiders and a final preseason game against them.

The Patriots’ first preseason game is expected to mostly feature rookies and backups vying for roster spots. Rookie quarterback Bailey Zappe, a fourth-round pick, should see most of the action behind veteran Brian Hoyer.

The Giants plan to start the meeting with their healthy starters, according to ESPN.