New England Patriots cornerback Marcus Jones has been one of the league’s surprises and big things are projected for the young Alabama native.
Jones had limited time on the field in 2023 due to a shoulder injury early in the year but that should not take away from his tremendous potential. The 25-year-old was a standout player at Houston and was rewarded for his hard work when he was picked up in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots.
In a recent exclusive interview with Overtime Heroics’ senior editor Reggie Roberts, the Patriots star opened up about about the upcoming season, NFL opponents, his personal life and his aspirations in the music business.
OH: “We recently interviewed a professional musician who told us that professional athletes all want to be professional musicians. Any truth to that?”
MJ: “I was actually in the band in the eighth grade in Fort Campbell, Kentucky. I played the trombone. I was actually first or second chair. I can’t really remember, but I was pretty good. I also played football as well, and you guys know that you can’t play in the band and play a sport at the same time. Musically, what I would like to do next is get crazy on those keys (keyboard). If you can end up learning how to play the keyboard, you can play any instrument. The keyboard is something that I need to learn how to play.”
Jones actually stated that if he wasn’t a professional football player, he would have likely been a musician and song writer.
One of Jones’ greatest strenghts remains his versatility and he really can do it all on the football field. Over his brief career, he has already recorded two interceptions, returned a touchdown and racked up 44 tackles. That is only on the defensive front.
On the offensive side, Jones four receptions, 78 yards and caught a touchdown in 2022.
What Jones is known for best, however, is his ability as a punt returner. Last season, he returned a touchdown 84 yards in a 10-3 win against the Jets in what turned out to be a game-winning touchdown. He is recognized as one of the league’s top young returners and we can expect to see him continue in that position next season.
It is nice when you have plenty of options to turn to. Music and football are two passions for this dynamic young star. The New England Patriots will be hoping that he sticks with football, and that they can continue to develop this supremely talented rising star.
