Patriots Re-Sign Jonathan Jones: New Position?
FOXBORO -- The New England Patriots acted quickly in retaining the services of a key component of their defensive backfield.
Just minutes past the NFL's 'legal tampering' period on Monday, the Pats agreed to terms with veteran cornerback Jonathan Jones on a two-year deal, as first reported by NFL Network.
According to AtoZSports' Doug Kyed, Jones deal is cumulatively worth $19 million. Jones is expected to receive a $7.5 million signing bonus, along with $13 million in guarantees. His base salary for 2023 will be $1.5 million, while the annual value jumps to $8 million for 2024.
Previous estimates had placed a potential contact in the range of $6-9 million annually. Last week, New England declined to apply the franchise tag to Jones in advance of the new league year.
While Jones' return to New England was far from a foregone conclusion, the two sides had routinely intimated that they hoped to reach an agreement. Following the retirement of longtime team captain Devin McCourty, the Pats took a big step in maintaining continuity, as well as a respect veteran presence, by inking the 29-year-old to a deal.
Since joining the Patriots as an undrafted rookie out of Auburn in 2016, Jones has become of the team’s most versatile defensive backs. For his first five seasons in New England, he was considered among the top slot corners in the NFL. Following the departure of ex-alpha cornerback J. C. Jackson via free agency in 2022, Jones make the switch to the perimeter. The 29-year-old compiled 69 total tackles, 11 passes-defensed, four interceptions (one of which went for a touchdown) and three forced fumbles in 16 games.
In coverage, Jones performed adequately, surrendering 47 catches on 87 targets for 547 yards and six touchdowns, per Pro Football Focus. He was the Pats most reliable contributor in a game day rotation consisting of veteran Jalen Mills, slot corner Myles Bryant and rookies Marcus Jones and Jack Jones.
While conventional wisdom would once again place Jones on the perimeter in 2023, yet another positional move may be in store for him. Without McCourty acting as the de-facto director of New England's defensive backfield, they will be in need of a versatile veteran capable of commanding the respect to take on the role. Though Jones began his pro career in the slot, he has previous experience playing safety from his days as an Auburn Tiger. His speed and experience make him an intriguing option, should New England decide to pursue an additional free agent cornerback, or address the position in the upcoming NFL draft.
No matter where he is deployed in 2023, the Pats secondary will be better equipped for the challenges which lay ahead with Jonathan Jones as one of its key components.
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