Patriots: Forecasting Cyrus Jones in 2016
This is the third installment in a 17-part series in which we are forecasting what 2016 holds in store for each member of the New England Patriots’ rookie class. Yesterday, we forecasted Kamu Grugier-Hill, and the day before that it was the day before that Elandon Roberts was the focus. Today, we’re forecasting former Alabama cornerback Cyrus Jones in 2016.
Evaluating roster chances of every Patriots draft pick
The skinny: Finally, after 59 picks had gone in the books, the Patriots were on the clock in the 2016 NFL Draft. The wait was worth it; the Patriots snagged one of the best corners in the 2016 class as well as arguably the best punt returners in college football last season. Being the Patriots’ first selection in the draft, Jones enjoys more than favorable chances of making the final roster.
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Pessimistic forecast: Jones disappoints in training camp, getting outplayed by sophomore pros Darryl Roberts and Justin Coleman. Even veteran E.J. Biggers looks better in live action than the rookie. Still, Jones makes the final roster because of his draft stock, but he also disappoints returning punts. Jones’ rookie year is a disappointment and the Patriots are left wondering about his long-term viability in New England.
Pessimistic stats projection: 17 tackles, two passes defended, no interceptions; 6.2 yards per punt return, muffed punt
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Optimistic forecast: From the first whistle of training camp, Jones begins a strong candidacy for Defensive Rookie of the Year. He easily wins the competition for the No. 3 cornerback spot behind Malcolm Butler and Logan Ryan, solidifying the slot role in the Patriots’ secondary. Furthermore, Jones does so well returning punts that the Patriots use him on every return, keeping Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola out of harm’s way.
Optimistic stats projection: 39 tackles, 13 passes defended, seven interceptions, two fumbles forced, two fumbles recovered, two pick-sixes; 9.9 yards per punt return, two punt return touchdowns
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Realistic forecast: Jones starts the season splitting the No. 3 role with one of Biggers, Roberts or Coleman. As the season progresses, Jones gets a better grip on the pro game, taking over as the regular slot corner by Halloween. An early-season muffed punt return translates into Jones sharing punt return duties with Amendola and Edelman. Jones’ rookie year is looked back as a success and he figures to be a contributor in the Patriots’ secondary for years to come.
Realistic stats projections: 30 tackles, 8 passes defended, three interceptions, fumble forced, fumble recovered, one pick-six; 7.7 yards per punt return, one muffed punt, punt return touchdown
Next: AFC Power Rankings: Pats top post-draft edition
How well do you think Jones will perform as a rookie? Comment below.