Denver Broncos defensive tackle Domata Peko talked about the addition of his old Bengals teammate Adam Jones.
The Denver Broncos signed cornerback Adam ‘Pacman’ Jones on Sunday. Jones reunites with his old Cincinnati Bengals position coach Vance Joseph, as well as former defensive teammate, defensive tackle Domata Peko.
On Monday, Peko was asked about Jones, who was a teammate of the defensive tackle in Cincinnati for seven seasons.
He is looking forward to reuniting with his former Bengals teammate.
It sounds like Peko is happy with the Broncos’ decision to sign Jones to replace former Broncos star cornerback Aqib Talib.
"“Adam Jones and I have played for several years together in Cincinnati and I’m really excited about the signing. We’re kind dinged up a little bit in the cornerback position. Then when you lose someone like [Rams CB Aqib] Talib, you’ve got to have some answers to that. ‘Rob’ (CB Bradley Roby) and [CB] Chris Harris, and then adding a guy like ‘Pacman’ is really good. He brings a lot of energy, he brings a lot of attitude and toughness, and that’s what I really like about him. He’s someone that on Sunday you want him on your team. He’s definitely going to ride with the defense and bring a little attitude to that spot.”Domata Peko (quotes via Broncos PR)"
In regards to career stats, Talib takes the win. Jones, however, has the physical ability and experience to be a great return man on special teams. Whether the Broncos ask him to return kicks or punts, he is able to do both.
In his role as a cornerback, Jones will be a threat to opposing offenses. I expect teams will be afraid to throw in his direction. He has intercepted 16 passes in his career, so he’s no stranger to takeaways.
If Jones can provide good enough coverage, that will make the jobs of guys like Peko and his defensive line teammates even easier. The better the coverage, the longer quarterbacks will hold onto the ball, allowing defensive linemen or linebackers to get to the quarterback for a sack.
Peko is no stranger to Jones’ presence on the field. His attitude is something the Broncos could really use after losing another player in Talib, who also was big on making himself known to opposing offenses.
By Peko’s description of Jones’ play, it sounds like Pacman will need to adjust how he makes tackles. The National Football League has implemented tackling rules that make it so a player cannot lead with their head.
"“I’m talking about his attitude on Sunday. He’s going to ride with the team and whatever color uniform we’re wearing. When we were at Cincy, he was riding for Cincinnati. Just like he is here, he’s a Bronco and he’s going to ride with our defense. What that means to me and what that means to us is that if we’re running the ball outside, he’ll stick his helmet in there and make a hit for us. That’s what I love about him.”Domata Peko"
The rule is controversial, so it might be that if Jones does not play according to it, he could be called for “leading with the helmet” penalties. He could be subject to a fine, suspension, or both by the league.
Either way, Jones should be a fantastic addition to the ‘No Fly Zone’ and help his old teammate win games in the 2018 season.