FOXBORO — The Patriots’ once-strong cornerback depth is dwindling.
Patriots head coach Bill Belichick formally introduced cornerback Marcus Jones is heading to injured reserve. The second-year professional tore his labrum within the Patriots’ Week 3 loss to the Dolphins.
“Well, he’s on IR for now,” Belichick stated when requested if it was a season-ending harm. “Be out for a while.”
Jones began Week 2 with Jonathan Jones out with an ankle harm and Jack Jones on injured reserve with a hamstring ailment.
“Yeah, it’s unfortunate,” Belichick stated. “Obviously had a really good rookie year. Explosive player.”
Jones performed offense, protection and as a returner in 2022 as a rookie. He returned 29 punts for 362 yards with one landing and 27 kicks for 645 yards. He intercepted two passes with one pick-six and one fumble restoration whereas registering 39 tackles and 7 move breakups. He additionally caught 4 passes for 78 yards with a landing.
Belichick was additionally requested in regards to the Patriots’ present cornerback depth. Jonathan Jones has been restricted in observe this week. Rookie Christian Gonzalez, Shaun Wade, Myles Bryant and rookie Ameer Speed are the one totally wholesome cornerbacks on the roster. The workforce at the moment has three cornerbacks on their observe squad in Breon Borders, Azizi Hearn and William Hooper.
“Yeah, it’s the best we have,” Belichick stated.
Safety Jalen Mills performed cornerback for the Patriots in 2021 and 2022 earlier than being moved this offseason.
“Yeah, sure, he’s played out there,” Belichick acknowledged.
Source: www.bostonherald.com