The third-year defensive back is becoming a valuable player on and off the field.
Arguably the best play of the New England Patriots’ second training camp practice on Thursday came courtesy of Marcus Jones.
Lined up against rookie wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk, the third-year cornerback was able to break up a sideline throw from quarterback Jacoby Brissett in 11-on-11 work. Jones competed well at the catch point 20 yards down the field, ripping the ball away at the last second to force an incompletion.
Jones being back in the lineup making plays is a welcome sight for a Patriots cornerback group that struggled with personnel consistency in 2023. The former third-round draft pick himself was lost early in his sophomore campaign with a shoulder injury, one of several issues the group encountered last year.
As a result of the injury, Jones was limited during offseason workouts. Early in training camp, however, he looks to be on track to earn a sizable role on defense.
Two practices in, the 25-year-old appears to be part of New England’s top three at cornerback. With Christian Gonzalez and Jonathan Jones manning the outside spots, he has seen extensive action as the starter-level cornerback in the slot.
His contributions go beyond that one specific role, however. Jones also saw some snaps on the perimeter himself on Thursday, while also serving as a punt returner; he was voted first-team All-Pro in that capacity during his 2022 rookie season. Additionally, the ultra-versatile youngster also participated in a wide receiver drill at one point — a potential sign that he might again be involved on the offensive side again.
Besides his potential on-field impact as one of the NFL’s most unique players, Jones also is becoming ever more important off the field. Despite his youth and the fact he only has appeared in 17 games, he is becoming a vocal presence and leader in what is a comparatively young cornerback room.
“He’s a ball player. He’s very good. He’s going into his third year, but he’s a big leader in our room,” said Gonzalez about his teammate following Thursday’s practice session. “A lot of people look to him. It’s really great to have him back on the field. Big energy guy that keeps the room all laughing and having fun. We always have fun with each other, so having him back on the field means a lot. …
“He’s smart. He knows the game really well. And he’s a vocal leader, he’s going to speak up. He’s going to tell you when you need to do something, when you did something good, when you did something bad. He’s just always there to help you take the next step and learn what you need to learn.”
Safety Kyle Dugger, who himself is focused on becoming more actively involved in the leadership department, also mentioned Jones’ energy. Cracking a smile when asked about his contributions, he immediately mentioned his communicative skills.
“He likes to talk, which we love,” Dugger said. “Communication, high energy. He’s definitely always talking out there, so it’s great.”
Whether it his development as a tone-setter in the secondary, his positional flexibility, or his qualities as a starting slot corner, it is obvious that Jones will be a prominent member of the Patriots in 2023. The arrow seems to be pointing in the right direction.