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.

While the 2026 class doesn’t have many notable players for the Patriots, there is one name that stands out: Marcus Jones. The slot corner and punt returner-extraordinaire has put together a solid couple of years with New England, making an impact in all three phases of the game.

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.

Marcus Jones is a perfect fit with the Patriots’ defense

Jones has shown flashes on offense and is a prolific punt returner, no doubt. But a cornerback by trade isn’t generally considered a true necessity to a team unless they are a sound defensive player too. He is just that, and that’s why Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine named him the Patriots’ top re-sign candidate for ’26.

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.

His versatility is another key facet of his game. Despite his size, he played on the outside the majority of his first two seasons. This season, his snaps were split between the slot, but with the addition of the aforementioned Davis, he can move into a position he should thrive in.

While the Patriots are $15 million in the red in 2026 (per Spotrac), re-signing Jones shouldn’t take all that much. The former All-Pro will likely see a contract similar to Packers’ Keisan Nixon, another savvy return man and slot option. He received a three-year deal worth $18 million, but Jones could get more. A $24 million deal for the same length seems fair for an instant jolt on special teams and starting slot.

Mike Vrabel has seen the utility of versatile defensive backs; he had plenty in Tennessee: Kevin Byard, Amani Hooker, Dane Cruikshank… He’d be foolish not to retain one of today’s most versatile cornerbacks and weapons. While it may not be done immediately, expect Marcus Jones to remain a long-term member of this team.