3 frontrunners to have a big year-two leap on the Patriots in 2023

Marcus Jones

It may seem out of place to have Marcus Jones on this list after his noteworthy rookie season, which earned him All-Pro honors as a punt returner. But it seems fair to assume we only saw a glimpse of what he can truly bring to the Patriots over the next several years.

The real test will be building upon that momentum and where it can take him.

His versatility was on full display throughout the 2022 season, working with the offense, defense, and special teams unit. He seemed to find his sweet spot as a punt returner, which the Patriots badly needed, and helped the team beat the Jets in the final seconds of their week eleven matchup with an 84-yard punt return touchdown.

Heading into his second season, there doesn't appear to be a clear direction with how Belichick plans to use him. Jones will likely be primarily used on defense and special teams since the offense has improved from last season, and based on how he practiced this summer, it looks like that may be the case.

But that's what makes a player like Jones so exciting to watch. His flexibility and natural talent as a pure football player automatically make him a secret weapon for any team to covet. You have to expect the unexpected when he is on the field because his skillset knows no bounds, and we will undoubtedly see that this upcoming season.

Regardless of where he is used, what Jones can bring to the Patriots is clear and will only get better with more experience and time.