Cyrus Jones set to return to Patriots -- how does he fit in the second time around?

Cyrus Jones has been signed by the Patriots off the Baltimore practice squad.

I’ll give you second to pick your jaw up off the floor.

OK, so now, the logical question: Why would New England bring him back?


Jones, who was taken in the second round of the 2016 draft but was cut loose at the end of camp, has experience working as a punt returner and cornerback, two areas where the Patriots need serious help. Returner Patrick Chung went down with a concussion Sunday against the Jaguars, and there are no other serious options on the roster, at least ones with as extensive a background as Jones. (This move could also provide some insight into just how serious Chung’s injury is.) Jones struggled at times as a rookie when it came to returning punts, but appeared to steady himself with a pretty consistent performance in the preseason.

The 24-year-old Jones will be part of the conversation when it comes to cornerback. Eric Rowe had issues last week against Jacksonville, and was eventually benched in favor of Jason McCourty. Jones will now provide some depth at a position where some of the other options include rookies Keion Crossen and J.C. Jackson.

Per reports, the Patriots are releasing running back/punt returner Kenjon Barner to make room for Jones. Barner was signed earlier this month, but did not appear in any games for New England.