New England Patriots rookie cornerback Jack Jones is big-game hunting to start the season. The fourth-round rookie cornerback -- touted by NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah for an impressive "mix of instincts and ball skills" -- has some of the team's biggest splash plays of the year. Check out this interception last week against the Lions:
Jack Jones continues to make plays. What an INT. Incredible. pic.twitter.com/lE3CyfPeS9
— Pats Buzz (@PatsBuzz) October 9, 2022
Patriots head coach Belichick praised Jones for this play after the game, saying he "looked like a receiver."
In his annual draft guide on The Athletic, Dane Brugler reported that Jones was only 159 pounds before choosing Arizona State, after not playing football for a year. Between his slim frame, No. 13 jersey and hand-eye coordination, he really feels like a receiver playing corner.
Cornerbacks are often known for their confidence. Jones is polarizing. There's a risk/reward element to Jones' game, although so far the gambles have been paying off. He has three pass breakups, one forced fumble, a fumble recovery and two interceptions -- one of which he returned for a touchdown.
Elite click and close ability by Arizona State legend, Jack Jones pic.twitter.com/rdg8SYwd4h
— Theo Ash (@TheoAshNFL) October 2, 2022
NBC Sports' Peter King and former Patriots star Ty Law pushed back against the rookie after Jones said it was disrespectful that Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers threw an out route against him in Week 4.
Jones has a complicated backstory. He's had his share of problems off the field. On the field, he led two two Pac-12 teams in interceptions (USC in 2017, Arizona State in 2019).
With Jones, you're riding a rollercoaster to a degree. Expect the lows and highs, but he's been playing awesome football, and not just for a rookie.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!