Patriots Roster Breakdown: Comeback for All Pro Marcus Jones

Marcus Jones was expected to retain his role of return specialist in 2023 while seeing more time as a slot corner. Unfortunately, Jones failed to solidify his role as a starting slot corner in training camp. Then he got injured in Week 2 against the Miami Dolphins and was lost for the remainder of the season. His injury was reported as a torn labrum.

Jones did not play enough in 2023 to have his Pro Football Focus grades be relevant. In 2022 he earned a 90.7 on offense, 80.2 as a returner, and 67.6 as a cornerback.

Contract Status

Marcus Jones still has two years remaining on his rookie contract with the Patriots.

Cornerback and Returner Groups

The cornerback room in New England currently consists of Christian Gonzalez, Jonathan Jones, Marcus Jones, Shaun Wade, Alex Austin, Isaiah Bolden, and Azizi Hearn.

Returners for the Patriots include Marcus Jones and Jalen Reagor. Isaiah Bolden and Antonio Gibson are others who could receive a look there as well.

Outlook for Marcus Jones

Some might forget what a bright spot on the Patriots Marcus Jones was in 2022. As a rookie, he became the first player since Deion Sanders to score a touchdown on offense, defense, and special teams in the same season. Jones moves through traffic with ease, making him elusive and tough to tackle.

As a cornerback, Jones has some work to do to prove he deserves regular snaps. The opportunity is there, as is the talent level and athleticism. But he does need to earn his snaps on defense. Christian Gonzalez and Jonathan Jones are the only two corners locked in for significant playing time at the moment. The team is likely to add to that unit further, either through free agency or the draft.

The speed and playmaking ability Marcus Jones brings to the table makes him a special player. This scribe had targeted him in the 2022 NFL Draft and was ecstatic about the selection. His return ability and his potential to be a rotational corner will undoubtedly keep him on the roster in 2024, barring any setbacks in his recovery. Marcus Jones and the New England Patriots were both snakebitten in 2023. The new season brings renewed progress for Jones to maintain his explosiveness as a returner while continuing to hone his craft as a cornerback as well.