"Marcus Jones brought some of that two-way flare back to New England. In 2022, the corner played a handful of offensive snaps as a slot wide receiver, and caught a touchdown pass that season. Over the last two years, he hasn't been given many real offensive opportunities, but his success as a returner proves he could still excel in that role if Mike Vrabel and Josh McDaniels chose to use him in that way."
"Jones has two punt return touchdowns this season, and the best statistical punt return average in NFL history (minimum 75 attempts) at 14.6 yards per return. Along with that, he's having his best defensive season in 2025, earning AFC defensive player of the month honors in October, recording 20 tackles, one sack, eight passes defended and two interceptions in that four game stretch."
"Dan Connolly was absolutely not a two-way player. He was an offensive guard for his entire Patriots and NFL tenure. However, he did have one shining moment of athleticism in New England. The lineman, normally tasked with blocking on kickoffs, had one kick aimed directly at him. Connolly didn't hesitate to not only catch the kick, but get himself into a full sprint and nearly return the kick for a touchdown. That one iconic play was worthy enough of a shoutout on our list."
The Patriots have a tradition of versatile players, including Tom Brady's quick-kick punts and Troy Brown playing slot corner. Marcus Jones showcased two-way ability in 2022 by lining up as a slot receiver and catching a touchdown. Offensive opportunities have been limited the past two seasons, but Jones has excelled as a returner, posting a 14.6-yard punt return average (minimum 75 attempts) and two punt return touchdowns this season. Jones also delivered a standout defensive stretch in 2025, earning AFC Defensive Player of the Month with 20 tackles, a sack, eight passes defended and two interceptions over four games. Dan Connolly earned an honorable mention for a memorable kickoff return effort.
Read at Boston.com
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