Patriots QB Mac Jones Misses Practice with Illness

New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones has been battling back spasms since his team’s Week 1 loss to the Miami Dolphins, but now has an illness that will prevent him from practicing on Thursday.

Jones is getting the day off Thursday after dealing with a stomach bug, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports.

Jones was expected to play this Sunday in Pittsburgh against the Steelers after suiting up as a full participant in Patriots practice on Wednesday.

Stomach issues usually resolve themselves long before the time that Jones would need to be ready to play, but he could be working with a short week of physical preparation. The Patriots have their final full practice before leaving for Pittsburgh on Friday.

Jones was just so-so in the opener, completing 21 of 30 passes for 213 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He also lost a fumble and was sacked twice. He finished the game, but the team was concerned enough about his back after the game to order an x-ray. He was later diagnosed with back spasms.

Former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback and longtime veteran backup Brian Hoyer would be the Patriots’ starter if Jones is unable to play.