The 2024 season has been a rollercoaster for the Indianapolis Colts. Sitting at 7-8, the team finds itself on the outside of the playoff picture, needing to win out and rely on external help to keep their postseason hopes alive. While the season has been largely disappointing, there have been a few bright spots for the Colts—and one of the most notable is the emergence of cornerback (CB) Jaylon Jones.
In just his second year in the NFL, Jones has quietly put together a breakout campaign, solidifying himself as a key piece of the Colts’ secondary. For a team that entered the season with significant uncertainty at the outside cornerback position, Jones has stepped up in a big way, proving that he could be a long-term solution for Indianapolis.
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CB Jaylon Jones’ Impressive 2024 Season
Selected in the 7th round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Jaylon Jones wasn’t expected to make an immediate impact. However, the 22-year-old cornerback has exceeded expectations and become one of the Colts’ most reliable defenders.
Through 15 starts in 2024, Jones has compiled an impressive stat line:
- 85 tackles (59 solo)
- 3 tackles for loss
- 2 interceptions
- 12 passes defensed
- 1 forced fumble
According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Jones has been targeted 75 times, allowing 48 receptions (a 64.0% completion rate) for 626 passing yards (13.0 yards per reception). He has given up just one touchdown while recording two interceptions and holding opposing quarterbacks to a passer rating of 83.5.
These numbers highlight Jones’ ability to hold his own against opposing receivers, making him a standout in a Colts secondary that has faced its share of challenges this season.
From Late-Round Pick to Key Starter
Jaylon Jones’ rise to prominence is a testament to his hard work and determination. As a 7th-round pick, he entered the league with little fanfare, but his performance has quickly silenced any doubts about his potential.
Coming into the 2024 season, the Colts’ cornerback situation was far from settled. The team had parted ways with Darius Rush, a 2023 5th-round pick, partially due to Jones’ strong offseason performance as a rookie. Meanwhile, JuJu Brents, a 2023 2nd-round pick, has struggled with recurring injuries, limiting his availability during his first two seasons.
Jones has not only outperformed his draft position but has also outshined some of the cornerbacks selected ahead of him in the same draft class. His ability to step into a starting role and deliver consistent performances has been a major boost for the Colts’ defense.
Drawing Comparisons to Colts Legend Jack Doyle
While it’s still early in his career, Jaylon Jones’ trajectory is starting to draw comparisons to former Colts tight end Jack Doyle.
Doyle, who was claimed off waivers from the Tennessee Titans in 2013, went on to become a cornerstone of the Colts’ offense despite being overshadowed by higher-drafted players like Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen. Similarly, Jones, a late-round pick, is proving to be a hidden gem in the Colts’ secondary, outperforming players like Brents and Rush, who were drafted with higher expectations.
Just as Doyle earned a second contract with the Colts and became a fan favorite, Jones appears to be on a similar path. If he continues to develop at his current rate, he could become a long-term fixture in the Colts’ defense.
What Makes Jaylon Jones Stand Out?
- Consistency:
Jones has been a reliable presence in the Colts’ secondary, starting 15 games and delivering solid performances week after week. His ability to stay healthy and available has been a key factor in his success. - Versatility:
Jones has shown the ability to defend both the pass and the run effectively. His 85 tackles and 3 tackles for loss demonstrate his willingness to step up and make plays in the open field. - Ball Skills:
With 12 passes defensed and 2 interceptions, Jones has proven he can make plays on the ball, disrupting opposing quarterbacks and receivers. - Poise Under Pressure:
Despite being targeted 75 times, Jones has held opposing quarterbacks to a passer rating of 83.5, showcasing his ability to handle high-pressure situations.
The Road Ahead
At just 22 years old, Jaylon Jones is still in the early stages of his career, but his potential is undeniable. As the Colts look to build a more competitive roster in the coming years, Jones’ development will be a key storyline to watch.
If he continues to improve, Jones could become a cornerstone of the Colts’ defense, much like Jack Doyle became for the offense during his time in Indianapolis. With his combination of talent, work ethic, and consistency, Jones has all the tools to succeed at the highest level.
Conclusion
While the 2024 season hasn’t gone as planned for the Indianapolis Colts, the emergence of CB Jaylon Jones has been a silver lining. In just his second year, Jones has proven himself as a reliable and talented cornerback, solidifying a position that was filled with uncertainty at the start of the season.
As the Colts look to the future, Jones’ development will be a critical factor in their defensive success. With his impressive performances and potential for growth, Jones is quickly becoming a name to watch in the NFL—and a player Colts fans can be excited about for years to come.
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FAQs
1. How has Jaylon Jones performed in the 2024 season?
Jaylon Jones has had a breakout second year, starting 15 games and recording 85 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, 12 passes defensed, and a forced fumble. He has allowed just one touchdown and held opposing quarterbacks to a passer rating of 83.5, making him one of the Colts’ most reliable defenders.
2. Why is Jaylon Jones being compared to Jack Doyle?
Jaylon Jones is drawing comparisons to former Colts tight end Jack Doyle because both players were overlooked early in their careers but went on to outperform higher-drafted teammates. Like Doyle, Jones was a late-round pick who has become a key contributor for the Colts, showing the potential to earn a long-term role with the team.
