Jones named NFL’s defensive rookie of the month

September 11, 2016 ATLANTA: Buccaneers tight end Brandon Myers catches a touchdown pass between Falcons defenders Ricardo Allena and Deion Jones during the first half in an NFL football game on Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton /ccompton@ajc.com

Credit: Curtis Compton

Credit: Curtis Compton

September 11, 2016 ATLANTA: Buccaneers tight end Brandon Myers catches a touchdown pass between Falcons defenders Ricardo Allena and Deion Jones during the first half in an NFL football game on Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016, in Atlanta. Curtis Compton /ccompton@ajc.com

Falcons starting middle linebacker Deion Jones was named the league’s defensive rookie of the month on Thursday.

Jones, a second-round pick from LSU, has started the first three games of the season and had a 90-yard interception return for a touchdown in the 45-32 win over the Saints. Jones also has made 25 tackles.

Jones is the third player in franchise history to win the NFL rookie of the month award – first defensive player – joining Julio Jones and Matt Ryan.