It’s good to be Marcus Jones.
The Patriots’ veteran cornerback/punt returner was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Month on Thursday, having tied for the league lead with eight pass breakups in October. He also recorded 20 tackles, a sack and two interceptions this month. On the season, Jones has helped power his defense to a top-5 ranking in points allowed and by EPA (Expected Points Added).
The 27-year-old was named a captain at the start of the season and has since played 76% of the Patriots’ defensive snaps. Jones also leads the NFL in punt return average at 21.6 yards per return, including an 87-yarder he took back for a touchdown in Week 4 against Carolina. Earlier this week, Jones agreed to terms on a new extension that will keep him in New England through the 2028 season.
On Wednesday, Pats coach Mike Vrabel explained why it was important for the team to extend Jones, who was set to hit free agency this offseason.
“I think he embodies everything that we’re looking for here in a player, in a teammate, on the field, in the community,” Vrabel said. “It’s something that we were excited about doing and glad that he wanted to get that done and be with us moving forward.”
Thursday marked the fourth time a Patriots player has received an NFL honor this season. Jones also won AFC Special Teams Player of the Week in Week 4, two weeks after running back Antonio Gibson earned the same honor. Outside linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson was named the AFC’s Defensive Player of the Week for his two-sack performance in Week 7 at Tennessee that included a fumble return for a touchdown.