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Patriots Veteran in Danger of Losing Job After Week 13 Change

New England Patriots CB Jonathan Jones could be on thin ice after his playing time underwent some massive changes in Week 13.

By Devon Platana

Nov 17, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; The New England Patriots huddle during the second half against the Los Angeles Rams at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
Nov 17, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; The New England Patriots huddle during the second half against the Los Angeles Rams at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images / Eric Canha-Imagn Images
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It was the same old story for the New England Patriots, who came up short against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. Despite holding a seven-point lead in the game's final minute, the Patriots couldn't hold on for the win as they allowed a touchdown and two-point conversion with 12 seconds remaining, falling 25-24 in the process.

After blowing the lead, the Patriots will likely look to make some changes as they enter their Week 14 bye. One potential change could be a further diminished role for an underperforming defender.

Patriots News: CB Jonathan Jones in Danger of Losing Starting Job

Veteran defensive back Jonathan Jones appears to be in danger of losing his starting cornerback job. As pointed out by NFL insider Mike Reiss, the Patriots CB played a season-low 21 snaps against the Colts on Sunday — drastically down from the 65 he logged against the Miami Dolphins in Week 12.

It's been hard for some Patriots fans to see what's become of Jones. The former Auburn product has been with the franchise since he walked on as an undrafted free agent in 2016, having since played 136 games between the regular season and playoffs while winning two Super Bowl rings with the franchise.

Having said that, Father Time is undefeated and Jones' age (31) appears to finally be catching up to him.

The Carrollton, GA native hasn't been productive this season, recording only 32 solo tackles, five broken-up passes, and a forced fumble in 13 games. His 63.9 coverage grade on Pro Football Focus is far from impressive as it's been nearly two full years since his last interception.

Jones is now slated to become a free agent in the offseason and it remains to be seen if the Patriots will want him back. His current cap hit sits at over $12.5 million and if he wants to return to England, a major pay cut will be needed for New England management to even consider a re-signing.

Jones' low snap count in Week 13 could be the start to the end of his time with the franchise. Younger CBs like Alex Austin and Isaiah Bolden easily outplayed their veteran counterpart over the weekend and it wouldn't be shocking if head coach Jerod Mayo rewarded them with more playing time.

We'll see if Jones is given an opportunity to get back into Mayo's good graces when the Patriots return to action against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 15.

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