Fansided

NFL free agency 2017: Five players whose value could skyrocket

By Matt Verderame

Oct 25, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Chandler Jones (95) points during the first half of a game against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 25, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Chandler Jones (95) points during the first half of a game against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
5 of 6
Next
Nov 29, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Chandler Jones (95) dances following his interception of Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) (not pictured) in the second quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Chandler Jones (95) dances following his interception of Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) (not pictured) in the second quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

The New England Patriots were able to reach the AFC Championship Game last season, in large part due to the pass-rushing ability of outside linebacker Chandler Jones. However, Bill Belichick decided to part ways with Jones in the offseason, dealing him to the Arizona Cardinals.

Jones has been one of the most talented and enigmatic players in the NFL. Coming into the league, Jones had six sacks and three forced fumbles back in 2012 before exploding onto the scene in 2013, racking up a team-high 11.5 sacks. The pattern continued over the next two seasons, with Jones accumulating six and then 12.5 sacks in 2015.

Now with the Cardinals, Jones is going to play in a very aggressive scheme under head coach Bruce Arians. If he can produce like he has in two of the previous three seasons, he will hit the market as one of the most productive pass-rushers in football at the age of 26.

The main focus for Jones has to be durability and consistency. Over his career, Jones has only played in 16 games once. In addition, Jones has a tendency to play with his effort at peak level one game before disappearing for a few weeks. If he can rectify those problems, he’ll draw a huge sum.

Next: 1. Fletcher Cox

Home/Buffalo Bills