Jonathan Jones and Christian Gonzalez ought to anchor the Pats’ backfield for 2023, however as with all younger defensive duo, there can be challenges forward.

The New England Patriots’ 2023 first-round draft choice was met with cheers and whoops as a previously projected top-five decide fell to the Pats at No. 17 total.

When cornerback Christian Gonzalez arrived in New England, many dubbed him a sneaky steal and see his unbridled potential to turn into the franchise’s most dependable and athletic nook since Stephon Gilmore.

What do present New England gamers must say concerning the decide? Solely good issues, although fellow nook Jonathan Jones’ phrases include only a contact of self-deprecation.

Jones reportedly advised the Boston Herald that the Patriots “wanted” the assistance.

“We would have liked it. We want assist. We want all the assistance that we are able to get. We’ve had a number of transition at that place over the previous couple of years.”

Whereas which may be true, saying that the Pats “want all the assistance they’ll get” isn’t precisely a gung-ho manifesto heading into the 2023 season.

Patriots’ Jonathan Jones excited to get some assist at cornerback

Gonzalez, a former Oregon Duck, has the bodily measurables and ball expertise to match up towards groups’ No. 1 huge receivers on the surface, one thing Jones was often tasked with in 2022.

The Patriots protection was ranked as one of many top-performing models final season, a extra spectacular feat when considering the just about lifeless offense. Any protection with Invoice Belichick’s fingerprints is certain to search out some constant success, however including a younger and promising ballhawk like Gonzalez was a wise and crucial transfer this offseason.

In 2023, the AFC East guarantees to be maybe essentially the most aggressive division within the league with the likes of Jets’ Aaron Rodgers, Payments’ Josh Allen, and Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa tearing defenses aside.

Jones had his plate full making an attempt to man-mark Stefon Diggs and Tyreek Hill; now, lastly, he’ll get fast starting-caliber assist.

Final yr, rookies Jack Jones and Marcus Jones (sure, there are three “Jones” within the Pats’ protection) shined right here and there and nabbed two picks a chunk, but they don’t carry practically as a lot upside as Gonzalez does.

The rangy and sturdy exterior nook will work with Jonathan Jones to seal the perimeter of New England’s defensive backfield, and the Patriots can solely hope and pray their offense can go toe-to-toe with their divisional rivals.

Securing key expertise at needy positions is just the primary a part of the equation. The second — and more durable — half is execution.