Patriots Marcus Jones Sets Franchise Punt Return Record Wins AFC Weekly Award

Marcus Jones, the New England Patriots cornerback and special teams captain, delivered a record-setting performance during the team's Week 4 blowout win over the Carolina Panthers, earning him the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honor. Jones set a new franchise record with 167 punt return yards, surpassing a mark that stood since 1976, and scored an 81-yard punt return touchdown that ignited the Patriots' scoring. His average of 55.7 yards per punt return in the game is the second-highest in NFL history, highlighting his explosive impact on the field. This accolade marks Jones' second career AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award, the first being in his rookie season in 2022 when he was also named an All-Pro returner. Jones' contributions have been pivotal in the Patriots' recent successes, complementing other special teams honors earned by the team this season. He credited his teammates for their blocking and support, which enabled his impactful returns and helped set up multiple scores in the game.