Patriots need more good than bad out of second-year defender
A to Z Sports is reviewing the New England Patriots’ 2022 NFL Draft class ahead of the team’s upcoming organized team activities next week. Next up in our Patriots 2022 NFL Draft review is a defensive back who played like a rookie of the year candidate early but finished his season on a negative note. […]
A to Z Sports is reviewing the New England Patriots’ 2022 NFL Draft class ahead of the team’s upcoming organized team activities next week.
Next up in our Patriots 2022 NFL Draft review is a defensive back who played like a rookie of the year candidate early but finished his season on a negative note.
Round 4, Pick 121: Arizona State CB Jack Jones
2022 Summary: Jones started off his NFL career hot with two interceptions — including a pick-six — in his first five games. He ended up allowing 20 catches on 40 targets for 306 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in 13 games and 434 defensive snaps before a stint on injured reserve and a one-game team-issued suspension to finish out the season.
What lies ahead: Jones fell to the fourth round, in part, due to off-field issues. So, a one-game suspension to finish out the year is a bit of a concern.
In an ideal situation, Jones is starting opposite Christian Gonzalez as the Patriots’ top outside cornerbacks with either Jonathan Jones or Marcus Jones in the slot. If Jack Jones doesn’t start, then Jonathan Jones would likely be the outside cornerback across from Gonzalez with Marcus Jones in the slot. Jonathan Jones is a better slot cornerback than outside cornerback. There’s more than enough snaps to go around for the four cornerbacks, regardless.
But Jack Jones showed high-end talent and playmaking skills last season in a somewhat limited role. And if New England can continue to harness that talent, they they have serious high upside group of cornerbacks in Gonzalez and the three Joneses.
Jack Jones is listed at 5-foot-11, 175 pounds and could certainly afford to bulk up as long as it doesn’t take away his playing speed. He’s a willing tackler, but there were times last season when his lack of bulk affected his ability to bring down bigger offensive playmakers.
The Patriots knew there was some risk involved when they took Jones in the fourth round. The gamble can pay off if he continues his trajectory from last season and doesn’t get into trouble again in Year 2.
Other 2022 NFL Draft picks: OT Andrew Stueber, G Chasen Hines, DT Sam Roberts, RB Kevin Harris, QB Bailey Zappe, RB Pierre Strong
Featured image via Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
