New England Patriots cornerback Marcus Jones will be active for training camp as he continues to recover from injury, Bill Belichick said during a press conference on Tuesday.
The Patriots drafted Jones in the third round at 85th overall this April. Since joining the team, he has worn a red jersey, which meant he was limited due to injury during minicamp and OTAs.
Jones comes to New England from Houston, ending a college career that had success. He was named to the 2021 ESPN All-America First Team as a kick returner, and was a 2021 CBS Sports First-Team All-American as an all-purpose player.
Bill Belichick says rookie DB Marcus Jones (third round, Houston) is active after being limited in the spring as he worked his way back from shoulder injuries sustained in college.
Jones is a top punt-return candidate, and projects as an inside CB/safety flex player.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) July 26, 2022
Jones is thought to be a piece of what is a rebuilding Patriots secondary. The Patriots may have a youth movement in the secondary, with fellow rookie Jack Jones making a good impression as well. A healthy Marcus Jones could be crucial for the team in the slot — while also potentially contributing as a returner on special teams.
