Patriots' CB Marcus Jones Out at Least 4 Games

Despite having seen the field for only 37 percent of the team’s defensive plays, Jones saw time as both a perimeter and slot cornerback. He logged 39 total tackles, seven passes-defensed, a fumble recovery and one interception returned 69 yards for a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 16.

Additionally, his speed and ability to recognize routes also allowed him to become a potential weapon out of the slot on offense in specialized packages. The 24-year-old caught all four of his targets for 78 yards, including a 48-yard touchdown in New England’s Week 13 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

Still, Jones’ most significant contributions came in resurrecting what had been a dismal return game in 2021. At his core, he is a phenomenal athlete, with significant breakaway speed, as evidenced by his game-winning 84-yard punt return against the New York Jets in Week 11. Jones compiled 1,007 total return yards in 15 games played. The ex-Houston Cougar led the NFL in total punt return yards, as well as with a 12.5-yard punt return average. He also ranked seventh in the NFL with a 23.9-yard kickoff return average, while finishing fifth in total kick return yards.

For his efforts, Jones was voted to the Associated Press All-Pro first team as a punt returner, the only Patriots player to make first-or second-team All-Pro. He was also named as both an All-NFL and All-AFC punt returner by the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA.)

Though he may have been a rookie, Jones played with a wisdom and a skill set far beyond his years; thus, making an indelible mark on the Patriots in all three phases of the game. This season, he had compiled only five tackles on defense, while returning three punts for 21 total yards. 

New England now faces the unenviable task of replacing Jones' speed and versatility in their lineup. The Pats have cornerbacks Christian Gonzalez, Jonathan Jones, Myles Bryant, Jalen Mills and Shaun Wade on their active roster. The also signed defensive backs Breon Borders and Azizi Hearn to their practice squad on Thursday.

The Patriots are set to take on the New York Jets on Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford New Jersey.