Editor’s note: NESN.com will profile intriguing prospects in the days leading up to the 2016 NFL Draft. Next up: Alabama cornerback Cyrus Jones.
Cyrus Jones, cornerback, Alabama
5-foot-10, 197 pounds
Projected round: Third to fourth
2015 stats: 37 tackles, two interceptions, seven passes defensed, one fumble recovery, two forced fumbles; 42 punt returns for 530 yards and four touchdowns
Testing numbers: 4.49-second 40-yard dash, 1.55-second 10-yard split, 33-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 8-inch broad jump, 4.21-second short shuttle, 6.71-second 3-cone drill, 10 bench-press reps at 225 pounds
Strengths: Jones has a fantastic combination of speed and agility, with a 4.4-second 40-yard dash and sub 6.8-second three-cone drill. He’s adept in both man and zone coverage, according to Pro Football Focus, which also notes Jones’ strong run defense. He’s also one of the best punt returners in the draft, averaging 12.6 yards per return with four touchdowns last season.
Weaknesses: Jones definitely is on the small side for an NFL cornerback, which might force teams to slide him inside to the slot, where he doesn’t have much experience. He gave up 39 catches on 68 targets for 497 yards with six touchdowns and two interceptions in 2015. He allowed 10 touchdowns in his final two years in college, and that’s on the high side for a top cornerback prospect. He “plays very well between lapses,” however, according to Pro Football Focus.
Patriots fit: Jones’ combination of speed and agility has to be attractive to the Patriots. His run defense also should make him a fit. New England values tackling ability and run defense at cornerback more than most teams.
Thumbnail photo via Tim Heitman/USA TODAY Sports Images
