NFL Rumors: Patriots waste zero time keeping defensive star in New England

The Patriots have wasted no time re-signing one of their best defensive stars as free agency begins.

To start NFL free agency during the legal tampering period on Monday, the New England Patriots have re-signed star cornerback Jonathan Jones to a two-year deal.

Jones gets a $7.5 million signing bonus. In 2023, his base salary is $1.5 million with a $1 million roster bonus ($58.8k per game) and $500k in incentives. In 2024, his salary is $8 million with a $1 million roster bonus ($58.8k per game) and $500k in incentives, per ESPN’s Mike Reiss.

NFL rumors: Patriots keep their top cornerback in Jonathan Jones

New England signed Jones in 2016 as an undrafted free agent, and since then, he has become one of the top nickel corners in the league. Last season, he played more outside than in the slot and excelled. In 2022, Jones recorded 69 combined tackles (56 solo and 13 assisted) and four interceptions, his career high for most interceptions in a season, and one touchdown.

Jones recently expressed interest in returning to New England, stating:

"“That’s the desire, to be back here. It’s what I know, it’s what I love, It’s New England. It’s hard to say no to New England.”“Being here is where I’ve spent a lot of my adult life. It’s been a part of my journey and I love it. The Patriots have been a big part of my life. My development, from a young man coming here when I was 22 years old, and just growing … so I would love to still be around. I love New England. It holds a special place in my heart.”"

With the recent retirement of defensive back Devin McCourty, the Patriots retain their top cornerback, and Jones gets his wish of staying in New England.

New England has also re-signed linebacker Raekwon McMillian to a 1-year deal with a $1.6 million base, and they are also working to bring back defensive tackle Carl Davis Jr.