Sources - Mac Jones, most New England Patriots starters not expected to play in preseason opener

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones and most of the team's starters aren't expected to play in Thursday night's preseason game against the New York Giants, sources told ESPN.

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

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

The Patriots' preseason opener is expected to mostly feature rookies and backups vying for roster spots. Rookie quarterback Bailey Zappe, a fourth-round pick out of Western Kentucky, projects to see the majority of action behind veteran Brian Hoyer.

The Giants plan to open with their healthy starters, per sources.