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Orange in the NFL: Chandler Jones' Big Debut

By Dan Lyons
June 29, 2012; Berea, OH USA: New England Patriots defensive end Chandler Jones catches a ball from a young girl during the AFC rookie symposium at the Cleveland Browns Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Eric P. Mull-USPRESSWIRE
June 29, 2012; Berea, OH USA: New England Patriots defensive end Chandler Jones catches a ball from a young girl during the AFC rookie symposium at the Cleveland Browns Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Eric P. Mull-USPRESSWIRE

Box scores are deceptive things. In checking up on how Chandler Jones performed in his NFL debut in last night's preseason Patriots-Saints game (a 7-6 Patriots win), his two total tackles doesn't seem overly impressive. But then, read Gregg Rosenthal's quick recap:

Patriots rookie pass rusher Chandler Jones made Saints Pro Bowl pick Jermon Bushrod look like a D-II prospect. Jones's big game didn't show up in the box score, but he forced two holdings, and pressures, and probably got all of New England very excited.

Well then...

A number of other former Orange(men) competed in preseason games last night as well.

  • Chandler wasn't the only Syracuse alum to make an impact on defense for the Patriots. Steve Gregory recorded two tackles and picked off a pass.
  • Curtis Brinkley led the San Diego Chargers in rushing, with 41 yards on 11 carries and a touchdown, in their 21-13 win over Green Bay. Boonah also caught four passes for 15 yards.
  • Jameel McClain recorded a tackle in Baltimore's 31-17 win over Atlanta.
  • Phil Thomas made his debut for the Philadelphia Eagles, and made one tackle in a 24-23 win over the Steelers.

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