New England Patriots: 7 standouts from minicamp
#31 Jonathan Jones, CB
The Patriots added cornerback Jonathan Jones as an undrafted free agent following the 2016 draft. He played four seasons at Auburn, collecting 129 tackles, 3.5 for a loss, and seven interceptions.
At the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine, Jones clocked a 4.33-second forty yard dash and posted 19 reps at the bench press.
According to ESPN’s Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss), Jones saw reps alongside starters, Malcolm Butler and Stephon Gilmore. He finished Day 1 of mini-camp with two pass breakups:
"“Second-year cornerback Jonathan Jones, specifically, had two pass breakups while continuing to work as the top nickelback alongside Stephon Gilmore and Malcolm Butler.” – Mike Reiss"
Jones made New England’s 53-man roster in 2016 and spent a majority of his snaps with fellow Auburn alum, Brandon King on special teams. He finished last season with 14 total tackles, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.
Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald tweeted on Tuesday that Jones was covering wide receivers, Brandin Cooks and Danny Amendola when he made his two pass breakups. Both of the throws were from Tom Brady:
Jonathan Jones' two pass breakups came in coverage against Brandin Cooks and Danny Amendola on throws from Tom Brady. They were legit.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) June 6, 2017
Like Jones, Cooks ran a 4.33-second forty at the Scouting Combine, so it isn’t surprising they’re utilizing his speed. If Jones can crack the roster, he’ll match matchup well with speedy opponents like Tyreek Hill, Will Fuller, and DeSean Jackson.
Keep an eye on Jonathan Jones throughout training camp as he competes with Cyrus Jones, Justin Coleman, and the other Patriots undrafted rookie cornerbacks.