Patriots lose one of Mike Vrabel’s favorites to Titans
FOXBOROUGH – One of Mike Vrabel’s favorites is leaving the Patriots.
Practice squad edge rusher Truman Jones is leaving New England and signing with the Tennessee Titans’ 53-man roster, according to his agent. This offseason, Jones was a Patriots award winner, and this season, Vrabel said the Harvard Alum was one of his favorite players on the roster.
“I’m not supposed to have favorites, but I would say that Truman’s close to the list if I had one,” Vrabel said earlier this month. “He’s an extremely hard worker. I would say that every time we have a show player of the week on the [defense] or special teams, I would say that he’s probably been one of those two, if not both, throughout the year. He’s done a nice job. He prepares as a starter each and every week. I just think he’s continuing to develop, and we would be comfortable if we had to play him.”
Jones entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2023, signing with the Kansas City Chiefs. He was on their practice squad and released last season. Jones signed with the Patriots practice squad last year on Dec. 3 and made his NFL debut in Week 18.
Jones was cut at the end of training camp this summer and signed with the Patriots practice squad. He was elevated to the team’s game-day roster in Week 6 and played 11 special teams snaps against the New Orleans Saints.
Now, Jones joins the Titans, where he’ll work with general manager Mike Borgonzi, who previously served as assistant general manager in Kansas City when Jones was with the Chiefs.
Mark Daniels has been on the Patriots beat since 2014. After working for the Providence Journal, he joined MassLive in 2022. Daniels has won awards for feature writing, column writing and general sports...
Darius Slay Fires Back: 'I’m More Determined Than Ever to Prove My Worth on the Field'
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Darius Slay has faced his share of challenges this season, but with every setback, his determination to return to elite form has only grown stronger. After facing a few tough games and being questioned about his ability to keep pace with younger, faster receivers, Slay is making it clear that he is far from finished and more focused than ever.
“The game isn’t easy, but it’s never been about the challenges — it’s about how you respond,” Slay said during a recent interview. “I’ve had my setbacks, but I’m more determined than ever to bounce back and prove that I’m still one of the best in the game.”
Slay’s confidence and resilience are key components of his leadership. As one of the most experienced and decorated cornerbacks in the league, Slay has built his career on overcoming obstacles. From his time with the
However, this season has not been without its difficulties. After being traded to the Steelers in 2025, Slay’s performance has fluctuated, with critics questioning whether his age and injury history have caught up to him. But Slay is not one to back down from adversity, and he knows that every challenge is an opportunity to prove himself.
“I’ve been through a lot in this game,” Slay continued. “I’ve faced some of the best pass rushers and wide receivers, and each time, I’ve come out stronger. This is just another chapter in my journey. I know what I bring to the field — speed, leadership, and the ability to make those game-changing plays when it matters most.”
Slay’s impact on the field goes beyond just his physical skills. His leadership and ability to mentor younger players, especially the Steelers' defensive backs, have made him an invaluable asset to the team. Even with the struggles this season, Slay’s ability to inspire his teammates has been evident in the way they respond to his calls on and off the field.
The Steelers' defensive unit, which is often seen as the backbone of the team, has shown flashes of brilliance this year, and Slay’s veteran presence will be crucial as they continue to battle for playoff contention. The defense has taken significant strides, with Slay playing a pivotal role in getting the most out of his teammates.
“I’m here to lead, to help this defense take that next step,” Slay said. “We’ve got a lot of talent, and I know that if we stick together, we can make a run. I’m going to give everything I have for this team, and I’m not going to stop until we reach the top.”
Slay’s comments underscore his unwavering belief in himself and his teammates. His mindset is clear: no matter the challenges, he will continue to fight for his place among the best cornerbacks in the NFL. With the season still in full swing, Slay’s determination and leadership will be pivotal as the Steelers look to make a deep playoff run.
“Setbacks don’t define you,” Slay concluded. “How you respond — that’s what matters. And I’m ready to show the world that I’m still one of the best.”
As the Steelers prepare for their next matchup, Slay’s relentless mindset will be crucial in both his personal redemption and the team’s success. The road ahead may be difficult, but Slay is ready to prove, once again, that he has what it takes to dominate the field.
