While fans worry and debate just how much talent the offense has, it’s safe to say that the Patriots defense is still pretty loaded.

Barmore, Godchaux, Judon, Dugger, Bentley, Uche, Gonzalez. There’s some pretty big names on that side of the ball who could (and should) have a big say in how long or quick this turnaround is. But, there’s another name that both fans and media alike aren’t talking about enough and it’s Marcus Jones.

We all saw his versatility with the screen for a TD against Buffalo on a Thursday night in 2022. Don’t forget about the pick-six against Cincinnati on Christmas Eve that year either, where he showcased his speed on the 69 yard return. Oh, and that whole punt return TD against the Jets with five seconds left thing.

Bill Belichick certainly deserves criticism for some recent drafts, but Jones may have been a steal.

Unfortunately, Jones played in just one game last year before tearing his labrum in Week 2 against Miami. He recently spoke after the first OTA and was clearly excited and most importantly, healthy.

“It feels good, feels good to be out there, back out there with my brothers and everything,” Jones said. “We’r just trying to stack one day at a time. I’m feeling good. I’m 100% ready and like I said man, just happy to be back out here with my brothers.”

Jones also spoke about how hard it was for him last season, a year that was supposed to be another big step forward for him.

“The main thing about the injury, it’s one of those things that happens. I hate that I couldn’t be out there with my brothers and everything, but I took it as a positive thing, making sure I take care of my body, do what I need to do and everything so I’m back for this season.”

A lot is going to be asked of Jones and rightfully so. If his rookie year was any indication, then this defense and special teams unit might have a legitimate playmaker on their hands that’s flying way too far under the radar.

“The main thing is that I’m everywhere,” Jones said when asked if he’d be given an indication of his role this season.

“Outside and inside, but I learned a lot from Myles (Bryant), he paved the way for letting me know how I should do things. I asked him a whole bunch of questions while he was here. So, I’m thankful for him, for sure.”