The New England Patriots have locked up one of their top defensive players for the foreseeable future.
The Patriots sit atop the AFC East with a 6-2 record after trouncing the Cleveland Browns 32-13 in a Week 8 victory. New England looks like a completely different team this season, and although a lot of the praise should be directed toward sophomore quarterback Drake Maye and the offense, the Patriots’ defense has also been getting it done this season.
Through eight games, New England is only allowing 300.4 yards per game, the ninth-fewest in the league. The Patriots’ defense is also holding opponents to a mere 18.3 points per game, allowing the fourth-fewest points per game in the league. New England’s secondary has been fantastic, with breakout cornerback and return specialist Marcus Jones manning the slot.
Now, after a dominant first half of the season, the Patriots and Jones have agreed to a three-year contract extension, first reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
“The Patriots have agreed to terms with standout CB and All-Pro punt returner Marcus Jones, per me and Tom Pelissero, with Jones getting three new years,” Rapoport wrote in a post to X on Tuesday. “A big-time reward for the homegrown star.”
Jones has been one of the best returners in the league since being drafted in 2022, earning All-Pro honors as a rookie punt returner. The versatile second-round pick has been an impactful returner again this season, posting 210 punt return yards on 10 attempts with an 87-yard return touchdown in the Patriots’ Week 4 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
Though Jones has been a great punt returner his entire career, his defense has been on full display this season. Through eight games, Jones has 36 total tackles with one sack and two interceptions. The Patriots have not disclosed the details of the three-year extension, but the team made sure to lock down the standout corner through the 2028 season.
More NFL: Shedeur Sanders Voiced Strong Opinion on Browns Ruling Him Out
