Cowboys upgrade secondary depth by selecting Byron Jones
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The Dallas Cowboys have selected cornerback Byron Jones out of Connecticut with the 27th pick of the 2015 NFL Draft.
Jones made a name for himself at the NFL Scouting Combine by setting an event record in the broad jump, leaping 147 inches. The Connecticut product also had the second-highest vertical in combine history. His athleticism enamored a Cowboys team looking for another vital piece in their secondary.
The 6-foot-1 cornerback showed a willingness to involve himself in run support and will complement Brandon Carr and Orlando Scandrick downfield, possibly as a slot cornerback. Jones possesses the ability to supplant either corner for one of the team's two starting positions.
Jones will contend for a starting spot right away and will make up for the catastrophic selection of Morris Claiborne sixth overall three years ago.
Byron Jones Bio
Position: CB
School: Connecticut
College Experience: Redshirt Senior
Height: 6-1
Weight: 199 lbs.
Age: 22
Combine Results
| Event | Result |
|---|---|
| 40-yd Dash | N/A |
| Bench Press | N/A |
| Vertical Jump | 44.5 inches |
| Broad Jump | 147 inches |
| 3-Cone Drill | 6.78 sec |
| 20-yd Shuttle | 3.94 sec |
Strengths
- Everything you want in the heart department. Played hurt in 2014 and has a warrior mentality to go along with physical gifts.
- Willing to stick his nose in against the run and get physical in all aspects of the game.
- Unbelievable leaper, setting a 147-inch broad jump record at the combine while also demonstrating that ability on film. Also had the second-highest vertical of all time.
Weaknesses
- Injury/durability is a concern after he was forced to undergo shoulder surgery in October, missing the rest of the season.
- Questionable foot work leaves him out of position and prone to collapse against elite route-runners.
- Has average speed and athleticism (outside of his leaping ability).