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(PHOTO: Patriots defensive end Jonathan Jones for the New England goal line after a 4th quarter interception and touchdown. The New England Patriots hosts the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium on Nov 6, 2020. [The Providence Journal / Kris Craig]) As we get closer to free agency, the Patriots appear to have already made a move to ensure one of their key defensive players is on the field in 2023.
According to Ian Rapoport, the New England Patriots and defensive back Jonathan Jones are expected to come to terms on a 2-year deal, which would keep the speedy cornerback with the club through 2025.
That move is significant because Jones is someone who has quietly been a valuable part of the Patriots defense. He’s often drawn the duty of covering opposing teams’ fastest players, matching up against guys like Tyreek Hill and doing a solid job against them.
He was also one of New England’s most important players in the club’s last Super Bowl championship, finishing that game against the Rams as the team’s leader in tackles along with a sack.
His overall role also includes solid play on special teams, with Jones finishing with a blocked punt last season.
Overall, he had a solid year coming off the shoulder injury he suffered in 2021, which ended his season. He finished 2022 with 11 passes defended, including four interceptions [tied with Devin McCourty for the team lead], one of which he returned for a touchdown.
Jones told NBC Sports Boston last week that he was hopeful things would work out for him to stick around.
“That’s always the goal,” said Jones. “I think for a guy to be in a place for his entire career, that’s abnormal. So that’s kind of always a goal for players. And I enjoy it. I’ve been here most of my adult life. It’s consistency here for me. And I love New England. The fans, the people, you know how crazy they are about the sports here. It’s definitely a second home for me.”
Fortunately, it appears for at least a couple of more seasons, he’ll remain a Patriot.
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