Jonathan Jones
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
| Position | College | Years in the NFL |
|---|---|---|
| Defensive Back | Auburn University | 8 |
Demonstrates Excellence on the Field
In his eight-year career, Jones has consistently demonstrated leadership and dedication on the gridiron, leaving it all on the field for his teammates. Throughout his career, he has amassed over 300 tackles, 11 interceptions, one returned for a touchdown, 46 pass deflections, and eight forced fumbles. Despite battling injuries, his determination to return to the field to support his team has never wavered.
Starting as an undrafted rookie free agent, he has become a reliable and steadfast presence on and off the field. The 2022 season showcased his excellence, starting in all 16 regular-season games. He accumulated 68 total tackles, four interceptions, including one for a 17-yard touchdown, 10 passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and even a blocked punt. On November 6, Jones made history by returning an interception for a touchdown and blocking a punt against Indianapolis. He became the fifth player since 2000 to achieve both a pick-6 and a blocked kick in one game, and the first since Patrick Chung in 2010 to combine a blocked punt with a pick-6.
Demonstrates Dedication and Commitment to Community Efforts this Year
Jones has consistently demonstrated excellence both on and off the field, leaving an indelible mark on communities in New England and beyond. In recognition of his remarkable contributions, Jones received the prestigious Ron Burton Community Service Award for 2023.
In 2023, Jones emerged as a champion of women's causes, making history as the first male ambassador for iPlay Like A Girl—an organization supporting women and girls in STEM and sports. His commitment to mentorship and empowerment was evident in his visit with 100 girls and mentors from Big Sister Boston at the Patriots Hall of Fame. Jones extended his dedication to women in sports by participating in a softball game at Auburn University with his
daughter and promoting women's athletic participation. During Black History Month, he was honored at the Auburn vs. Georgia gymnastics meet, fostering connections with the gymnastics team.
His commitment to youth development remained robust as hosted his fourth annual football camp for young athletes. Additionally, Jones engaged with children at the Fanatics and New England Patriots Merch Madness, organizing football activities and distributing merchandise to underscore his commitment to community engagement and empowerment. He also founded the Trojan Student-Athlete Development Fund, providing a $100,000 naming gift to emphasize practical life education, professional development, mentorship, character development, leadership, and healthy lifestyles.
Jones' commitment to equity and empowerment continued with efforts such as revisiting the Auburn Sustenance Project in February, hosting a community fundraiser, and packing meals for those in need. The Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation also became an agency for the Food Bank of East Alabama, contributing to the fight against hunger.
His philanthropy was consistently recognized, with the Mayor of Auburn declaring "Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation Day." Jones generously donated $5,000 to the Auburn Sustenance Program, aiding students in need. He received the "Friend of the Child" award from the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and was named a top five finalist for the prestigious Alan Page Community Award after hosting a fundraiser for the Auburn Sustenance Program. Additionally, he spoke on a panel addressing the racial wealth divide at the Apollo Theatre.
Demonstrates Dedication and Commitment to Community Efforts in Years Past
Jones has been a notable changemaker in his community. One of his notable community works includes hosting a heartwarming Christmas in July Back to School Drive, distributing toys, books, and treats to bring joy to many faces. During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jones organized a Covid Relief Food Drive, providing essential meals to 800 families over two weekends. In May 2022, Jonathan partnered with Bass Pro Shops to donate equipment and organize a day at the lake for kids to learn practical life skills and indulge in fishing. He participated in the annual holiday concert at Boston Children's Hospital, bringing warmth and joy to young patients during the holiday season.
Jones demonstrated his commitment to inclusivity by engaging in football skills activities with high school students with disabilities at AccesSport America at Harvard University. He also participated in James White's Sweet Feet for Strikes bowling tournament, benefiting the pediatric unit of Boston Medical Center.
His commitment to education and ensuring local youth have the resources they need to succeed is evident in his role in the 10th annual Village Youth Summit, providing students with school supplies, backpacks, and shoes in partnership with the Rouse Foundation.
Demonstrates Consistency in Positive Character and Models a Lifestyle of Giving Back
Jones's commitment to giving back is epitomized through his foundation, the Jonathan Jones Next Step Foundation, Inc., established in 2019. This foundation focuses on empowering and educating youth, fostering practical life skills, professional development, and mentorship.
Before his professional football career, Jones was actively involved in volunteerism, contributing to a local soup kitchen. This early experience fueled his desire to use his platform as a professional athlete for larger-scale community impact. In December 2021, Jones partnered with Unruly Splats to offer a $20,000 scholarship to three schools, emphasizing teaching youth how to code while staying active. Collaborating with Walmart and EcoSneakers, his foundation provided 200 new pairs of shoes to community members while collecting shoes to recycle during National Recycling Week in November 2021.
Jonathan Jones's dedication to community and innovative initiatives serves as a testament to the positive impact one individual can make by giving back, empowering youth, and promoting education. He stands as a cornerstone of the Patriots organization, not only for his on-field prowess but also for his dedication, versatility, and leadership off the field.
