A new contract extension and an AFC Defensive Player of the Month award have given Jones reason to smile.

Zak Kuhr offered a succinct response when he was asked what he’s been seeing from Marcus Jones lately.

“A big smile on his face,” the Patriots’ interim defensive play-caller said.

There are plenty of reasons for the veteran cornerback to be grinning. Jones was named AFC Defensive Player of the Month on Thursday, just two days after inking a three-year contract extension with the Patriots.

He explained what the new contract meant to him while dressed as “Sonic the Hedgehog” at a Halloween party the Patriots and Revolution put on for local children who are battling cancer.

It’s only fitting that the dynamic returner was wearing a costume that symbolized speed while displaying some of the leadership qualities that have his coaches raving about him.

“He’s the same guy day in and day out,” Kuhr said. “He is the definition of our team identity. I’m so happy for him. He deserves that [award]. He hasn’t changed a bit, working his tail off out there, making plays out there in practice. It’s well deserved for him.”

Special teams coach Jeremy Springer called Jones after the news broke. The 5-foot-8, 188-pound defensive back made his mark this month, not only by picking off Josh Allen in a key moment in the Patriots’ upset over the bills, but also making his presence felt in the run game.

He’s tied with Milton WIlliams for second on the team in tackles for loss [6]. He’s fourth on the team in tackles [36], and has the most among Patriots defensive backs. The Patriots have occasionally sent him on blitzes, and he became one of seven New England players to record a sack this season.

“Everything is earned. Everything he has gotten in this league, he’s had to earn it. Probably his whole life, with size and length and all that good stuff,” Springer said. “He just proves it with his play and his style and also his off-the-field stuff. I know [Mike] Vrabel has said it. He’s such a good leader.”

The award recognized Jones for his defense, but he has been stellar in the return game as well. He was dominant against the Panthers, dashing for an 87-yard punt return touchdown on Sept. 29. He finished with 167 total punt return yards on the day after nearly scoring on another. He and Tampa Bay’s Kameron Johnson are the only players in the league with multiple 40+ yard punt returns this season.

Jones is third in the NFL in punt return yards (216), and he has at least three fewer attempts than everyone else in the top 5.

“I’ve always said his decision-making is top-tier and it still is, but his ability to set returns up [sets him apart],” Springer said. “Guys just don’t get the angles that he guys that are running down have to present. He has a really good natural knack to feel the return, feel where it’s going to go, and set his guys up that way.”

The Patriots haven’t used Jones on offense the way they have in previous years, but his impact in two of the three phases of the game has been game-changing.

“I’d say he’s doing some special stuff out there,” Kuhr said. “That’s not to say that’s not league wide, I’ve been around a couple of guys who are like that, but he really is playing a complete game right now with the run game, his number being called on pressures, coverage, ball disruption and obviously special teams so he’s doing some pretty special things right now.”

The Complete Player

In past seasons, the Patriots occasionally used Jones on offense — often as a gadget player in motion or on screens. While his offensive snaps have been reduced this year, the impact he’s making on defense and special teams more than compensates.

“He’s playing a complete game right now,” Kuhr said. “Against the run, in coverage, on pressures — he’s everywhere. That’s rare, even at this level. I’ve been around a few players like that, and Marcus is right up there with them.”

Indeed, few players in the league contribute in as many ways. Whether he’s dropping into deep coverage, blitzing off the edge, or flipping field position with a long return, Jones’ fingerprints are on nearly every Patriots victory this season.

Recognition and Reflection

The AFC Defensive Player of the Month award is Jones’ first major individual honor at the professional level, and it comes at a time when the Patriots are looking to re-establish their identity under new leadership. His success embodies the core values that have long defined the franchise — work ethic, accountability, and selflessness.

“It’s not about me,” Jones said modestly when asked about the recognition. “It’s about the team. My teammates and coaches put me in great positions to make plays. I just try to do my job and help us win.”

His humility mirrors that of Patriots legends before him — players who earned their reputations not through flash, but through consistency and heart.

Looking Ahead

With his contract extension secured, Jones’ focus remains firmly on the future. The Patriots defense — once again among the top units in the league — will continue to rely on his playmaking as they push through the second half of the season.

Opposing offenses are already taking notice. Quarterbacks have begun avoiding his side of the field in coverage, while special teams units are increasingly choosing to punt out of bounds to prevent another highlight return.

Still, Jones welcomes the challenge. “That’s respect,” he said. “If they want to keep it away from me, that means we’re doing something right. But when I get my chances, I’ll be ready.”

The Heart of the Defense

For a player once viewed as a special-teams specialist, Jones has blossomed into one of the Patriots’ most complete defenders — a player who embodies the grit and discipline that head coach Mike Vrabel demands.

“He’s the heartbeat of that defense,” one teammate said. “Every week, he shows up. Doesn’t matter if it’s offense, defense, or special teams — Marcus Jones is going to make a play.”

As the Patriots eye a postseason run, Jones’ leadership and energy could prove pivotal. For now, though, he’s simply savoring the moment — and that unmistakable smile is proof enough of how far he’s come.

“He’s earned every bit of it,” Springer said. “He’s one of those guys who reminds you why you coach this game — because of how much he loves it.”

A new contract, a major award, and a reputation as one of the AFC’s most dynamic playmakers — Marcus Jones’ journey is just getting started.