In a surprising move, the New England Patriots have decided to waive cornerback Jack Jones following his reduced playing time and disciplinary measures. Jones, a second-year player, saw his time with the Patriots come to an end on Monday, as confirmed by his agent.

During the Patriots' recent loss to the Colts in Germany, Jones only played 10 snaps, further continuing the disciplinary measures taken against him. The 25-year-old cornerback had been benched in the previous contest alongside veteran J.C. Jackson, who remained stateside for the international game. While Jackson is a possibility to return for the team's next game, Jones will not have that opportunity.

Drafted in the fourth round in 2022, Jones entered the league with a history of disciplinary issues dating back to his college days. Despite his past, he showed promise at Arizona State and had an encouraging rookie season with 30 tackles, two interceptions, and one forced fumble. However, a hamstring injury delayed his 2023 debut, impacting his performance this year.

Unfortunately, Jones struggled in coverage this season compared to last year, allowing a completion percentage of 78% and a passer rating of 101 as the closest defender. On top of his on-field struggles, there was a brief legal matter where he was arrested in July for attempting to bring loaded firearms onto a plane. Charges related to this incident have since been dropped, but any potential league action remains uncertain.

Jones is now available to all NFL teams via the waiver wire. If he goes unclaimed, he will be free to sign with any interested party. Given his age and the promise he showed in 2022, teams will be closely watching to see how aggressively they should pursue him. His agent has already expressed his readiness to contribute to his next team as early as Sunday.

Meanwhile, the Patriots find themselves with a shorthanded cornerback group. First-round pick Christian Gonzalez is out for the year with a torn labrum, and Marcus Jones is on injured reserve. With the absence of Jackson as well, the Patriots relied on relatively new and inexperienced players in their secondary during Week 10. Unless Jones clears waivers and remains in the organization via the practice squad, the Patriots will be without him moving forward.

The decision to waive Jones has raised eyebrows around the league, and it remains to be seen how this will impact both the Patriots' defense and Jones' future in the NFL.