New England Patriots rookie Jack Jones shines at Lambeau Field
By Morgan Jayne
With the absence of veteran cornerback Jalen Mills, who is dealing with a hamstring injury, the New England Patriots 2022 fourth-round pick Jack Jones made the most of this opportunity.
Jones made his first start of the season as the Patriots faced off against the Green Bay Packers.
Jones was a bright spot for the Patriots in the hard fought overtime loss in Week 4.
New England Patriots cornerback Jack Jones stepped up in his first start
In the first quarter, Jones forced and recovered a fumble on Packers rookie wide receiver Romeo Doubs. The play gave the Patriots a first down at the 50-yard line.
Later in the second quarter, Jones intercepted a pass from Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and returned it 40-yards for a touchdown.
https://twitter.com/Patriots/status/1576692380035604480
This was only the second time that Rodgers had an interception returned for a touchdown at Lambeau Field, the home of the Packers.
Speaking about Jones’ pick six in the postgame press conference, New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick praised Jones’ contributions.
"“We will look at the film and see how it goes. Jack made some good plays and there are some other things he can work on like everybody, like all of us. It was a big play at the end of the half.”"
When asked about the pick six play, Jones made his own comment.
"“Personally, I feel like it’s disrespectful to throw an out route on me.”"
The Patriots even named Jones as the Player of the Game for his efforts.
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If the rookie was not full of confidence before this game, he sure is now. Mills should not be sidelined for too long however it is relieving to know that Jones is there and he is capable of making huge plays.
This game not only showed promise for the rookie cornerback but also for the rookie 3rd-string quarterback Bailey Zappe, who was thrust into the game when Brian Hoyer, the backup to Mac Jones, suffered a head injury.
One thing that New England Patriots players do well is embrace the “next man up” philosophy.