FOXBOROUGH – Jonathan Jones wouldn’t reveal the nature of the injury that’s sidelined him the past three weeks.
But the Patriots top corner, who was back at practice on a limited basis Sunday, said he hopes to be ready for the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles in two weeks.
“That’s the goal, that’s the plan,” Jones said, speaking with reporters at his locker two days before rosters are trimmed to 53. “I’m just taking it day-by-day to get ready.”
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Jones, the team’s most experienced corner, said it hasn’t been easy for him missing time in the lead up to the first game.
“It’s tough not being out there with your teammates,” he said, “but it’s just a part of football, and I’m working hard to try and get back out there.”
In terms of the Patriots secondary, the best alignment of cornerbacks would likely have Christian Gonzalez and Jack Jones starting on the outside, with Jonathan Jones in the slot.
The veteran corner played on the outside last year, mostly out of necessity. He could once again find himself out on the boundary, pending what happens with Jack Jones court case. Or, move back to his old stomping grounds in the slot. Should Bill Belichick opt to have him on the outside, either Myles Bryant or Marcus Jones would start on the inside.
However it plays out, it’s certainly good news that Jonathan Jones has his sights set on being ready for the start.
“I’m just trying to get healthy, be as healthy as I can heading into the season,” said Jones. “I’m just taking it day by day just trying to be out there with my teammates.”
Jones said he likes the group, especially how the younger players have developed in the cornerback room.
“They’ve grown. They’ve got a lot of good reps,” he said. “They’re still improving week by week as the season starts.”
Prior to getting injured, Jones had spent some time playing opposite 2023 first-round pick Christian Gonzalez. He likes what he’s seen from the rookie thus far.
“He came to work. He’s come in to work every day. That’s all you can ask for,” said Jones, “try not to make the same mistakes and continue to get better.”
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