Assessing Jermaine Jones' Off-The-Field Value

In the April 2014 edition of Boston Magazine, Kevin Alexander called the Krafts, proprietors of both the New England Revolution and the Patriots, the worst owners in Major League Soccer. Much like Grant Wahl in his annual "Ambition Rankings," Alexander questioned the Krafts' drive when it comes to soccer. Using quotes from former MLS players, the article claimed that the Krafts were "cheap" and would never get a "legit DP."

Just over three months later, the Revolution have declared an interest in signing Jermaine Jones. The move, if it materializes, would help the Revs shed their reputation as an organization that lacks commitment.

While Jones won't garner the same type of excitement that David Beckham, Thierry Henry or Kaka brought, he is a big name that would certainly draw attention. Jones was arguably the best player that donned a US jersey in Brazil as his tireless running and tenacious tackling were instrumental in helping the team advance to the knockout round. Of course, his crowning moment came against Portugal when he scored a curling beauty from 25 yards out.  Bringing Jones to Gillette would turn heads, sell jerseys and likely lead to increased media attention, at least initially.

If the media do turnout, Jones would have no problem providing quotes as the German-American was talkative throughout the World Cup. Ives Galarcep of Goal.com reported that Jones frequently made himself available to media while some of his teammates avoided the spotlight. Jones would instantly become one of the more marketable faces for the Revs, something that he would have no problem accepting.

Of course, Jones will demand a high designated player salary. The exact number is unknown, but Jones did retweet a fan who estimated that $4 million seemed appropriate for "our best player at the WC." Jones also claimed during an interview with Fox Sports that he would join MLS as long as they "give me what I want."

Investing in Jones would be a landmark moment for the Revs. The team has employed players that earned over the league maximum, but some of these individuals weren't considered DPs because of the team's use of allocation money. In total, the Revs have had three Designated Players since the rule was introduced in 2007: Milton Caraglio, Shalrie Joseph and Jerry Bengtson. Jones would be different type of DP.

With Caraglio and Bengtson qualifying for DP status because of their loan/transfer fee, Joseph is the team's only Designated Player to collect a salary that was above the threshold. Of course, Joseph earned his contract after years of dedicated service and lights-out performances, which differentiates him from Jones. Adding Jones would show fans that the front office is willing to put forth money if the player is the right fit.

Furthermore, winning the "Jones lottery" would take a high level of ambition. Jones is a player that is being targeted by teams throughout the league. The midfielder has been linked to the LA Galaxy and Chivas USA. Most recently the Chicago Fire has expressed interest in acquiring Jones. With so many clubs eyeing the former Schalke player, his signature would be a huge get for the Revolution.

Soon to be 33 years old, Jones isn't likely to feature in the next World Cup. Still, he is a favorite of US coach Jurgen Klinsmann, which could mean call ups to the Gold Cup, Copa America and/or Olympics. The Revolution would surely benefit from having a bonafide US national team star on their squad.

Whether listed as a current or former national team player, Jones would be a legit Designated Player that brings the Revolution a lot of off-the-field value.