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Heading to the 2022 NFL season, the New England Patriots didn't get to make much noise in free agency as they did a year ago. However, they managed to get a sizable haul after selecting 10 rookies in the recently-concluded 2022 NFL Draft.
Out of all of them, offensive lineman Cole Strange, who was drafted with the 29th overall pick, is projected to be a Day 1 starter to fill in the spot vacated by Ted Karras at left guard next season. Meanwhile, the other rookies that were picked by the Patriots are still in the development stage towards playing at the pro level. Still, it doesn't hinder any of them from making an impact on the team in their first year in the league.
Patriots Rookie Sleeper for 2022 NFL Season
Perhaps the best rookie sleeper to emerge as a contributor for the Patriots next season would be their fourth-round pick in cornerback Jack Jones. The talent of the Los Angeles native can't be questioned as he was previously a five-star recruit coming out of high school. However, he fell in the draft primarily due to his small frame as he stands at just 5-foot-10 and 175 pounds.
Another major concern for many was his rocky stint in the collegiate ranks. Jones spent his first two seasons with USC before getting dismissed due to academic struggles. Not long after, he was arrested for commercial burglary back in June of 2018.
After spending time at Moorpark College to bring his grades up, Jones finally returned to action by suiting up for Arizona State for the 2019 season. There, he continued his collegiate career and produced 41 tackles, three interceptions, and a sack in 11 appearances during his final season in 2021.
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Due to his performance, Jones still made it all the way to the fourth round of the draft despite his off-field issues in the past. Luckily for him, he landed in New England which just lost its top CB in J.C. Jackson who opted to sign with the Los Angeles Chargers in the offseason.
Jones is poised to join a cornerback unit headlined by former Pro Bowler Malcolm Butler and Super Bowl LII champion Jalen Mills with the Patriots. Playing time won't be assured for him right from the get-go but he can slowly work his way up the team's depth chart as the 2022 season progresses.
Despite his small frame, Jones has shown his level of athleticism and how he can contain his matchups with the help of his ball-hawking abilities. The versatility that he possesses which allows him to play in the slot and on the outside would also help him see more action on the field. Without a marquee CB on its roster for 2022, the Patriots would need their rotational guys to step up in order to ensure that they get to limit opposing wide receivers next season.
If Jones manages to make the most out of the opportunities that he will get in his rookie season then he may just be able to carve out a sizable role for himself in New England. His contributions will definitely be a much-needed boost for the team's defensive unit as the Patriots aim to have another playoff run for the 2022 NFL season.
