Patriots News: Bill Belichick, Demario Douglas, Jack Jones and Steve Smith Sr.

Jack Jones continues to shine since signing with the Raiders

Since the Patriots selected cornerback Jack Jones in the 2022 draft, his time in New England was quite a roller coaster. He began his career with flashes of greatness, like recording a pick-six against Aaron Rodgers at Lambeau Field, and his performances quickly made him look worth every bit of the "risk" Bill Belichick took by drafting him.

But that quickly changed when Jones's rookie campaign ended with a suspension by the team, followed by legal drama due to his arrest over the summer.

Although it had all the makings of a player the team would cut, Jones remained on the roster and took the field for five games this season. He didn't get many opportunities to stay in games, which was said to have resulted from bad practices. Then apparent attitude issues widened the divide between him and the Patriots, ultimately leading to him being waived in November.

The Raiders picked him up, as his familiarity and long-term relationship with interim head coach Antonio Pierce made them the best team for Jones to have a fresh start elsewhere. And since he went out west, he's already recorded better performances through five games than in New England.

His performance against the Chiefs in Week 16 made most conclude he could eventually become a shut-down corner in the NFL, as he recorded five total tackles, one pass defended, and a pick-six returned for 33 yards. The score put the Raiders further ahead of the Chiefs heading into halftime, which became a critical moment that allowed them to win the game.

Maybe all he needed was a change of environment, or perhaps something deeper led to him wanting out. But it's looking like the decision to waive him may have been a mistake.