Patriots cornerback Jack Jones spoke to reporters for the first time since his June 16 arrest at Logan Airport. He has been present at practice throughout 2023 training camp for New England, but Friday night after the team’s annual in-stadium practice was the first time he was made available to media in attendance.
Jones fielded five questions about both his legal situation and his time at camp for the Patriots, the latter of which has been eventful in itself. Here’s a quick recap of everything Jones said…
On his mindset during training camp amid his legal trouble…
New England Patriots cornerback Jack Jones sprints during 2023 training camp in Foxboro. (Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports)
“When I get out here on this football field, it’s all ball, man. I just come out here to play ball, give them my all, and do what I’m supposed to do for the team.”
Jones has avoided off-field trouble since his arrest, and he’s been a full participant every day in practice for the Patriots. He’s often repped with the “2’s” on defense, with Jonathan Jones and Christian Gonzalez getting the majority of reps at outside corner.
On his version of events from the night he was arrested…
Jack Jones takes the field for the New England Patriots before practice during 2023 training camp in Foxboro. (98.5 The Sports Hub)
“I mean, I can’t answer that question. That’s a question for my lawyer.”
It was certainly the most predictable news of all time that Jones wouldn’t offer any detailed comments on his gun possession case, but it simply had to be asked. Jones is due back in court Aug. 18 for a probable cause hearing stemming from his arrest at Logan Airport, where security found two loaded guns in a duffel bag with his name on it.
Jones is facing charges of possession of a concealed weapon in a secure area of the airport, possession of ammunition without a firearm identification card, unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm, and possession of a large capacity feeding device.
On how optimistic he is that he will be a part of the Patriots in 2023…
Randall Cobb of the Green Bay Packers is pursued by Jack Jones of the New England Patriots at Lambeau Field on Oct. 2, 2022. (Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
“That’s not my call. That’s up to coach [Belichick]. I just do what I’m supposed to do on the field, give it my all every day, and hope it falls into the right place.”
Jones’ status on the Patriots’ roster in 2023 is entirely tied to his legal situation. If he ends up facing significant jail time for his gun charges, the Patriots may have no choice but to cut him and move on.
On Thursday’s incident in practice…
Jack Jones of the New England Patriots reacts after a tackle during a game against the Chicago Bears at Gillette Stadium on Oct. 24, 2022. (Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
“Just football. Today is today. It’s in the past. It’s nothing bad. We’re good today, though.”
Jones had an animated reaction after a play where he lined up against Kendrick Bourne during Patriots team drills in Thursday’s practice. He briefly left the field before later returning and talking at length with teammate Jalen Mills and Patriots Director of Player Personnel Matt Groh. He didn’t return to participating in practice.
On whether he’s worried about his future in the NFL…
Jack Jones of the New England Patriots celebrates after an interception against the Detroit Lions at Gillette Stadium on Oct. 9, 2022. (Nick Grace/Getty Images)
“I mean, every day you’re worried about your future on any team, because this league is very liquid. You could be here today and gone tomorrow on any team. So, you just got to go out there and participate. Availability is the best ability.”
That last comment is the important part for Jones. He’s definitely talented enough to play cornerback in the NFL, perhaps at a high level. As long as he stays out of trouble off the field, there will be a place for him in the league. But he needs to prove he can be depended upon to stay available.
