The Patriots kept most of their core during the offseason and face a relatively light 2026 free-agent class. Rotational contributors Austin Hooper and Jaylinn Hawkins will become free agents in 2026, while one-year prove-it players such as K'Lavon Chaisson and Jack Gibbens will hit the open market. Marcus Jones stands out as a 2026 priority due to his slot coverage, special-teams excellence and occasional offensive impact. Jones has produced five catches for 96 yards and a touchdown, a First Team All-Pro punt-return selection with a 12.5-yard average, and rare multi-phase touchdowns. He graded 70.2 overall and 88.2 in run defense per PFF, ranking seventh among cornerbacks, and has been consistently above average in run defense despite a smaller build, often showing the versatility to play outside.
With the influx of players during this offseason, the Patriots have the bulk of the core group under contract for the next few seasons. In 2026, solid rotational pieces like Austin Hooper and Jaylinn Hawkins will be free agents, and a handful of players on one-year prove-it deals also will see the open market, like K'Lavon Chaisson and Jack Gibbens.
On offense, the former Houston Cougar has five career catches for 96 yards and a touchdown to go along with a single rush for five yards. He's been a weapon in the return game from the jump, being named a First Team All-Pro in his rookie season as a punt returner. His 12.5 yards per punt return that season led the league, and he became the first player in 45 years to nab a touchdown in each phase.
With the signing of Carlton Davis to play opposite Christian Gonzalez, Jones will remain a high-caliber third cornerback and slot man in New England. His 70.2 PFF grade last season was sound, but his run defense grade was particularly impressive, especially considering his 5'8", 188-pound build. His 88.2 grade in the category slotted him seventh among cornerbacks. In all three seasons, Jones has been a firmly above-average run defender.
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