Patriots' Chandler Jones named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month

Defensive end Chandler Jones was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for his efforts as a member of the New England Patriots in September. Jones has made an instant impact with the Pats, recording three sacks, 17 tackles, and forcing two fumbles in his first four games.

The sack total was the highest among rookies, and Jones got to the quarterback in three out of four games. Jones is just the second Patriot to be named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month, joining Jerod Mayo. Jones's biggest play of the month came when he sacked Tennessee Titans quarterback Jake Locker, forcing a fumble that was taken in for a touchdown by Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower.

Jones was the 21st overall pick in April's NFL Draft. He has already come close to his season total of sacks in his senior year at Syracuse, when he recorded 4.5 in seven games. Jones had 10.5 sacks and 27.5 tackles for loss in three seasons with the Orange.

This story originally appeared on SB Nation New York.