Jones has one year left on the rookie deal he signed with the Patriots in 2022, meaning he will have to clear waivers before being an outright free agent. Jones allowed a league-high 10 touchdown receptions last season, per PFF, but also tallied a career-best three interceptions and 16 pass breakups. At just 27 years old, Jones has plenty of upside to offer a team needing secondary help. There should be plenty of teams interested in taking a one-year flyer on him for this season.

If the team can’t find a suitor for Jones, the soon-to-be fourth-year corner will be released on Monday, per Bonsignore. Jones was a fourth-round pick by the Patriots back in 2022 and tallied 69 tackles, 16 pass breakups, and a career-high three interceptions last season. Per PFF, Jones also allowed opposing receivers to catch 54 passes for 679 yards and 10 touchdowns, tied for the most touchdowns allowed of any corner last season. It’s possible the Raiders find a team willing to part with a late Day 3 pick in exchange for Jones’ services, but it wouldn’t be surprising if any teams interested waited until his release to make him an offer. Jones is entering the final year of his rookie contract.

The Patriots get a small boost to their secondary with the return of Jones, who will be making his season debut in Week 7 against the Bills.

The Patriots secondary has been ravaged by injury through six weeks, a troubling trend that carries forward into Week 7 with 16 players listed as questionable heading into the weekend. New England could find it difficult to slow Stefon Diggs, Gabe Davis, and company at less than 100 percent.