He registered seven interceptions during his time at the University of Alabama, and it seems as though Cyrus Jones has made a smooth transition to the professional game. New England’s top pick of the 2016 NFL Draft recorded his first career pick Thursday night against the Chicago Bears.
He baited quarterback Brian Hoyer into throwing the ball toward the boundary, where Jones was able to quickly read and create a turnover. He broke to the ball cleanly in the second quarter and returned the interception 14 yards, setting the Patriots up for a scoring opportunity in the red zone.
Patriot Cyrus Jones with a pick of Bears Hoyer https://t.co/5ST4C9Mika
— Boston Sports Info (@bostonsportsinf) August 19, 2016
His effort led to a one-yard touchdown from LeGarrette Blount, cutting the deficit to 11-9. New England edged out Chicago 23-22 at Gillette Stadium, improving to 2-0 in preseason action.
Jones would account for a tackle, a pass breakup and 22 punt return yards, to pair with his interception. He’s totaled three tackles, a fumble recovery and a pick in two preseason games.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
