The Patriots defense has been hit hard by injuries, but the team will soon be getting some reinforcement. According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 in Houston, New England has designated cornerback Jack Jones for return from IR.
The 2022 fourth-round pick showed flashes as a rookie, compiling 30 tackles and two interceptions (including a pick-six on Aaron Rodgers.) Jones landed on injured reserve late during his rookie campaign thanks to a knee injury, and he was later suspended by the Patriots for undisclosed reasons.
Jones suffered a hamstring injury prior to Week 1 that ultimately required him to be placed on injured reserve. It took more than the minimum four weeks for the cornerback to return to the practice field, and the Patriots will now have 21 days to activate Jones from IR.
Considering New England’s current struggles at the position, the team will likely make that activation sooner rather than later. Rookie first-round pick Christian Gonzalez is out for the season after suffering a torn labrum, and promising sophomore Marcus Jones is also on injured reserve with a shoulder injury. Making matters worse, veteran Jonathan Jones missed a handful of games and has played through an ankle injury over the past few weeks.
Considering the losses the Patriots have faced at the position, the front office went out and acquired old friend J.C. Jackson from the Chargers. After debuting with the Patriots in Week 5, Jackson played in 96 percent of New England’s defensive snaps in Week 6.
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