Pro Bowl Superstar Derrick Brown Applauds Patriots' Game MVP After Panthers' Defeat: "That Was His Game"

Foxborough, September 28, 2025

After a crushing 13-42 loss to the New England Patriots in Week 4 of the NFL on September 28, 2025, at Gillette Stadium, Carolina Panthers' defensive superstar Derrick Brown – who was honored as Pro Bowl in 2023 – offered sincere praise for the game's MVP, Marcus Jones of the Patriots. Despite the Panthers' defense being "crushed" by the opponent's explosive offense, Brown demonstrated professional respect, acknowledging Jones' decisive role in the overwhelming victory.

Dramatic Match: Patriots' Comeback Thanks to Jones

The game witnessed the Patriots' spectacular comeback from an early 6-0 deficit. Jones, in his role as returner, "awakened" the entire Gillette Stadium with an immediate 87-yard punt return touchdown, flipping the score to 7-6 in just minutes. Not stopping there, he added another 61-yard punt return, setting a team record with a total of 167 punt return yards – a rare feat in Patriots history. These plays not only ignited the home team's spirit but also paved the way for QB Drake Maye and the offense to score 42 points, turning the game into an "offensive parade."

Sincere Praise from Brown in Post-Game Press Conference

In the post-game press conference, Brown – who had 4 total tackles but couldn't generate significant pressure on Maye – did not hesitate to praise Jones. "That was his game," Brown said, his voice full of respect. He then elaborated: "He showed up and showed why he was the standout in the game. He was calm under pressure, executed great plays. We gave it our all, but we have to recognize him as the reason the Patriots won this game. We respect him and his team."

Fair-Play Spirit and Future Prospects

Brown's praise, from the Panthers' defensive pillar with 248 career tackles and a record 67 tackles for a DL in a single season (2022), highlights the fair-play spirit between the two teams. Despite the Panthers' slump with a 1-3 record, head coach Dave Canales emphasized: "We learn from failure, and respecting the opponent is part of the journey." For Jones, this performance not only earned him MVP but also solidified his status as a "special teams spark" for the Patriots, helping them climb to 2-2 in the AFC East.

Panthers fans may be disappointed, but Brown's words remind us: NFL is where talent is recognized, regardless of the jersey. Next week, the Panthers face a bigger challenge – can they turn the tide? Stay tuned!