Put Russell Wilson, Jayden Daniels, and Drake Maye on the back burner! JuJu Smith-Schuster’s throwing his weight behind Mac Jones for the Patriots‘ starting QB spot in 2024. TMZ caught a moment with Smith, throwing some curveball questions his way. The winds of change are sweeping through the Patriots’ camp, with the legendary Bill Belichick era giving way to Jerod Mayo’s new leadership.

This shake-up could spell fresh faces on the field too, especially with the Patriots holding a golden ticket: the third overall pick in the draft. Whispers are getting louder that Mac Jones might be heading for an exit. But if Smith-Schuster has his way, Jones isn’t going anywhere.

JuJu Smith casts his lot with Mac Jones

“Honestly, man,” the New England wideout opened up to TMZ Sports at LAX. He was asked who he want to throw the ball to him in the 2024 season. “My boy Mac, that’s my guy.” He didn’t shy away from the tough reality, acknowledging, “I know at the end of the day, it’s whatever the coaches decide to do. But I think Mac’s still got it.”

Despite his support, it’s no secret that Mac Jones faced a challenging season. With a record of only 2-9 in his starts, the numbers were far from flattering. Just 2,120 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, leading to a quarterback rating of 77.0. The pressure’s been mounting, especially since it’s the second year in a row Jones seemed to take a step back. Calls from Patriots Nation for a new direction are getting louder.

Read More: Exclusive: Roosters Skipper James Tedesco Gives Final Verdict on Tom Brady-Patrick Mahomes GOAT Debate Before NRL 2024 Opener in Las Vegas

But amidst the storm, Smith-Schuster has full faith in Mac. And Mac had placed his trust in JuJu during a tough time as well.

Jones supports JuJu despite game-breaking mistake

JuJu Smith had been faced the heat when he landed in Foxborough. But the chatter around became louder following a heartbreaker against the Washington Commanders. A pass meant for Smith-Schuster ricocheted off his hands, landing instead with Washington’s Jartavius Martin, sealing the game with an interception.

Pointing fingers at Smith-Schuster might be the easy route. Yet, Mac Jones stands solid behind his mate, not letting a single slip-up shake their bond. “We’re good,” Jones reassured fans, shedding light on the unpredictable nature of football.

Here’s to hoping this quarterback-receiver pair continues to stand shoulder to shoulder, weathering the highs and lows together in the seasons to come.