Hartley in line to lead England
The New Zealand-born front row forward who has 66 Test caps for England is favourite to take over from flank Chris Robshaw despite a chequered disciplinary record that has seen him suspended for a total of 54 weeks in his career.
Hartley was not part of former coach Stuart Lancaster's squad at the recent World Cup on account of his poor discipline, but Jones is reportedly keen to a confrontational player as his captain.
Jones met with Lancaster on Wednesday to discuss the challenges of the role, and an announcement on the captaincy is expected soon, with Jones looking at a two-year cycle.
Lock Joe Launchbury was originally the bookmakers' favourite to take over from Robshaw, who is still in the frame to play flank, but it is thought Jones wants a more abrasive character to lead the way for England.
Jones has offered all players a clean slate, which could work out particularly well for Hartley who also missed the 2013 British and Irish Lions tour due to disciplinary reasons.
Hartley was skipper of the Northampton Saints team that claimed the Premiership title last year, but he has been sidelined since November 7 with concussion and it is not clear whether he will be available for selection in England's first Six Nations match against Scotland on February 6.
Meanwhile, since Lancaster's assistants Graham Rowntree, Andy Farrell and Mike Catt were let go Jones has made some progress in appointing his support staff.
Former England lock Steve Borthwick has been appointed forwards coach despite some resistance from his current employers Bristol, and Saracens defence coach Paul Gustard is expected to be appointed in the new year.
