Indianapolis Colts second-year cornerback Jaylon Jones was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week following his Week 3 performance against the Chicago Bears.
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The highlight of Jones’ day was a pair of interceptions. One of which provided an important momentum shift. With the Bears on the cusp of the red zone, Caleb Williams felt pressure in the pocket from Tyquan Lewis, trying to get the ball to DeAndre Carter on the left sideline, Jones jumped the route and came away with the pick. Three plays later the Colts offense would find the end zone.
The second interception came on a throw where safety Nick Cross was in close coverage and was able to get his hand on the ball, which popped it up into the air for Jones to grab.
In addition to the takeaways, Jones also recorded five tackles, and allowed four completions on seven targets in coverage for only 36 yards. His passer rating when targeted was just 31.5.
With unknowns at the cornerback position entering the 2024 regular season, the Colts are banking heavily on the development of Jones in his second year to provide improved play at cornerback. Sunday’s performance could provide a key jumping off point for him.