Where do experts believe Texas A&M’s Jaylon Jones will be selected in the 2023 NFL Draft?
The 2023 NFL Draft is just days away as the next generation of stars looks to hear their names called in Kansas City. Among them is Texas A&M’s Jaylon Jones, but where do the experts and analysts predict he’ll be drafted come this weekend?
The consensus predictions have the Aggies cornerback being drafted in the fifth round, with his projected overall ranking clocking in at No. 138 overall. With NFL franchises always looking for depth in the secondary, there remains an opportunity for Jones to climb up the boards for the right franchise.
Below are a few of his projected landing spots and teams, as well as our breakdown and analysis.
Round 3 – Baltimore Ravens (LastWordOnSports)
Round 4 – Kansas City Chiefs (TWSN)
Round 4 – Cincinnati Bengals (Bengals Wire)
Round 4 – Jacksonville Jaguars (Black and Teal)
Round 4 – Atlanta Falcons (Sportsnaut)
Round 5 – Carolina Panthers (FOX Sports)
At 6-2, 200 lbs, with a 30 3/4″ wingspan, Jones has the size and length to be an imposing defensive back in the NFL, but questions lie around his footwork and technique as he makes the transition. With a 4.57 40-yard dash at the combine, teams may have some hesitations around his long speed when covering speedy opposing receivers.
Still, Jones will have every opportunity to compete for a backup spot and will likely see time on special teams, hence his projection of being drafted either in Rounds 4 or 5. Additionally, a potential move to safety could be a possibility for him as well.
Being drafted in Round 3 feels a little bit of a stretch at this point, so joining the Chiefs, Bengals, Jaguars, or Falcons in Round 4 feels more practical. Jacksonville (28th), Cincinnati (23rd), Atlanta (25th), and Kansas City (18th) all boasted defenses that ranked below average against the pass.
While Jones may not come in as a bonafide DB1 at the start, he could absolutely make the most of some roster competition through camp.
Jones also brings veteran experience as a three-year starter for the Maroon and White, and with the exception of the Falcons and Panthers in the aforementioned teams, everyone else listed is expected to contend for a postseason spot. Those franchises likely won’t opt to throw a raw prospect out there in the fire.
If Jones’ experience can give him an edge through the draft evaluation process, hearing his name called in the middle of the seven-round draft could prove to be a blessing if he gets the opportunity to play for a competitive franchise to start his career.
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