Adam Jones has been called a few unsavory words by Bengals fans. But, the bottom line is all about his play. Personal life aside, he’s been solid.
Sometimes, information hits you with an unexpected whack. Then there are moments that just plain make you sit back and think. Lately, when Adam Jones has been in the news, it was bound to be something negative. But, everything about Jones isn’t a walk on the wild side. Pro Football Focus had something nice to say about the Bengals’ defensive back.
During the 2016 season, Jones was a part of the “No Fly Zone.” If you’re struggling to comprehend that name, it has nothing to do with a strike at Southwest Airlines. It’s a term used by the Denver Broncos to describe their talented secondary. Jones wasn’t moonlighting as a Broncos player, he was just good at his job of defending downfield.
Per PFF, Jones allowed the third fewest yards per snap (2012-2016) behind Chris Harris Jr and Richard Sherman, respectively. They have him pegged for giving up just) 0.94 yards each time the ball is in play with him on the field. That’s good news for Bengals fans. After an offseason of negative press and speculation about his future with the Bengals, Jones grabbed some attention for his craft.
🚫✈️ pic.twitter.com/p3ZmePwKGE
— PFF (@PFF) June 19, 2017
When Marvin Lewis pulled Jones from the dregs of the NFL untouchables, that’s the production the Bengals had in mind. He’s been a solid contributor on the field. It’s his private life that tends to get him smeared across television and personal device screens.
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The Breakout Year
Jones was finally recognized for his on-field accomplishments by getting an invitation to the 2015 Pro Bowl. It was his first acknowledgment and seemed to prove the results of a grueling workout routine. Jones made an impact that year with 62 tackles, 12 passes deflected, three INTs and a sack.
During OTAs and minicamp, Jones has been on his best behavior. He’s been impressed with the rookies and the development of the Bengals defense. But, what’s being said about Jones?
The Bengals’ blur at receiver, John Ross, was asked who stood out on defense. In other words, who could hang with him in the speed department.
"“Pacman,’ said Ross, per Bengals.com. “Very elusive. Pacman can run. Pacman is an athlete.”"
Jones is getting up there in age. He’ll be 34-years-old after the season gets underway. But, Ross is impressed with his speed. That speaks volumes. As captain of the Bengals’ defense, he has to be on point physically and mentally. So far, Jones hasn’t been talking about himself. It’s all about the team and what they can accomplish.
"“We’re getting better than last year. We’ve got a lot of good pieces. We’ve got our whole defense back and a couple of more young guys that can help us. As a whole we are faster.”"
Hopefully, that’s a quiet sign that he’s ready to be a leader by example and the Bengals won’t regret bringing him back. But, this could be Pro Bowl year number two for Adam if things go right.