New England Patriots cornerback Marcus Jones set multiple milestones in the Week 4 game against the Carolina Panthers.
The electric returner set a new franchise record for punt return yards with 167 total on the day, breaking Mike Haynes’ previous record of 156 total yards in a game. Along with the total yards record, Jones also set a new record for punt return average in a single game with 55.7 yards.
That record ranks second all-time in a single game behind former Indianapolis Colts returner Nyheim Hines (65.0).
Jones returned a punt 87 yards to the house in the first quarter against the Panthers. He nearly returned a second punt for a touchdown, but he was tripped up right before the end zone.
Along with setting the team record for PR yards in a single game, @Patriots CB @MarcusJonesocho also set the team record for PR avg. in a single game with a 55.7 avg.
His 55.7 avg. ranks 2nd all-time in single-game @NFL history behind Nyheim Hines (65.0). pic.twitter.com/DffWDhjt8G
— Patriots Communications (@PatriotsComms) September 28, 2025
Jones’ returns sparked an avalanche of points from the Patriots, who went on to beat the Panthers by a 42-13 margin.
The Patriots will need more big plays like the ones Jones had in this game throughout the season. They are still a rebuilding football team with holes to fill on their roster. These are the kinds of plays that can carry them to victory even in games where they are outmatched.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots CB Marcus Jones made history in one more way vs. Panthers
