Every year in the NFL draft, we see some of the freakiest athletes get picked. This year will produce such specimens like Myles Garrett, Obi Melifonwu, Tanoh Kpassagnon, and Jarron Jones. Jarron Jones may be the least well-known of the group. The mammoth from Notre Dame has dealt with injuries and did not attend an all-star game. Despite this, Jones has shown potential almost as big as he is and is one of my favorite sleepers in the draft. Here's why:
Measurables:
Height- 6'5''
Weight- 315 lbs
Year:
Junior (23)
2016 stat line:
45 tackles (26 solo), 11 TFLs, 2 sacks, 3 PDs, 1 FF
Pros: Jarron Jones is enormous. He checks off every physical box from length to width. He surprisingly shows a quick first step and low(ish) pad level for his size. Against the run, he is a force. He explodes off the line of scrimmage and uses his length and strength to barrel through guards. He is a good finisher as well who does not miss many tackles. As a pass rusher, he flashes a bull rush, rip move, and swim move. Jones has active hands and keeps his legs pumping even through double teams. He also does a good job of getting his massive mits up to deflect passes if he cannot reach the quarterback.
Cons: The biggest knock on Jones is that he can't stay healthy. He has suffered through MCL, foot, and other injuries throughout his career. He needs to pass medical tests if he wants a shot at being an early round pick. Jones also needs to show consistency on passing downs and inside runs. He needs to avoid getting stood up by guards while rushing. On inside runs, Jones needs to show better strength and not get turned away from the running lane by the offensive lineman.
Pro Comparison: Michael Brockers, DL, LA Rams
Michael Brockers is a freaky big player who (when at his best) is the yin to Aaron Donald's yang. Donald uses his quickness to rush the quarterback and Brockers utilizes his power to eat up blockers, stop the run, and occasionally pass rush. Jones could see a similar role in his NFL career.
3 teams that could use him: The Texans love to have monsters on the defensive line, and Jones can plug up the inside while JJ Watt, Whitney Mercilus, and Jadeveon Clowney dominate the edge. The Buccaneers are always looking for a defensive lineman to pair with Gerald McCoy, so it would be worth seeing if him and Jones complement each other well. The Falcons need help on the defensive line next to breakout candidate Grady Jarrett, so Jones could slide in next to him and bolster the front seven.
Conclusion: Jarron Jones is a monster who can dominate in the run and pass game if he gets better coaching and can stay on the field. He should come off the board in rounds 3-5.
All stats from www.sports-reference.com
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