Report: Mac Jones expects to be available for MNF vs. Bears

Quarterback Mac Jones expects he'll be available when the New England Patriots host the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football, sources told ESPN's Mike Reiss.

Jones has missed the past three games for the Patriots due to a high left ankle sprain. He reportedly told teammates he's made progress and has one more hurdle to clear in his recovery ahead of the Week 7 matchup.

Head coach Bill Belichick didn't offer any information on Jones' status or the Patriots' plans at quarterback.

"As you know, Mac's been inactive the last two weeks," Belichick said Wednesday. "So there really isn't a conversation to be had here. Hypotheticals and all that, I'm going to stay away from those. We'll see what we are actually dealing with here as we go forward."

Jones is expected to be the Patriots' starter when he's healthy enough to play, sources told The Athletic's Jeff Howe.

The Patriots initially turned to Brian Hoyer in Week 4, but he was forced out of the contest with a concussion after their second offensive series. Since then, rookie Bailey Zappe has led the offense.

The Western Kentucky product started the past two games, establishing a 2-0 record. The 23-year-old has passed for 596 yards and four touchdowns with a 72.9% completion rate.

Meanwhile, Jones has thrown for 786 yards, two touchdowns, and five interceptions in his first three contests of the season.

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