Alabama Football 2016 NFL Draft Profiles: Cyrus Jones

Cyrus Jones

Position: Cornerback

Pro Day Height/Weight: 5'10"/197 lbs

40 Yard Dash Time: 4.49 seconds

Bench Press Reps (of 225 lbs): 10 reps

Hand Size: 9 1/8 inches

Arm Length: 31 3/8 inches

Vertical Jump: 33.0 inches

Broad Jump: 116.0 inches

20 Yard Shuttle: 4.21 seconds

3 Cone Drill: 6.71 seconds

2015 season

Cyrus Jones became one of the better cornerbacks in the SEC in his senior season. He improved his coverage skills and also made a huge impact in the returning game. In his last year, Jones recorded two interceptions (including a huge pick on the goal line against Michigan State), eight pass break ups and 37 tackles. Jones also added four tackles for loss. He led the nation in punt returns, taking back four punts for a touchdown, with two of those being over 60 yards.

Strengths

Jones is an exhilarating threat in the return game. He contains the speed and elusiveness needed to give a team a game-changing play on special teams. As seen by his Michigan State return, getting a hand on him when the ball is in his possession is easier said than done. As far as defensive skills, he can play well in press coverage. He possesses the strength to jam receivers at the line and make them work to accomplish the route they want to run. Jones also has a killer instinct as his position. He always seems to play with a chip on his shoulder, as if someone said some personal insult to him at the beginning of every game. That kind of attitude will help him in the NFL, as Jones never backs down from a challenge. He will not be intimidated as far as confidence goes, he believes he can compete with anyone.

Weaknesses

He does not have the size that most scouts look for in a NFL corner. His height can make it tough for him to guard some of the taller receivers on the outside. He sometimes has trouble using his speed to recover on when separation is created between him and his receivers. He also has trouble locating the ball when it is up in the air, occasionally being out of phase. He might need to just improve his awareness in general with zone and man coverage as well as locating the ball carrier in the run game.

Verdict

Despite the limitations that come with his size, his confidence at his position makes him something to watch out for. He also adds that different dynamic with his skill set in the return game that teams could use to their advantage. Teams will notice his lack of size and some of his weaknesses, but will also notice his physicalityy and his willingness to never back down against any opponent. He will have a chance to thrive in a nickel corner position who will be able to help with the run at that position and cover certain receivers in the slot.

Prediction

Jones will most likely fall to the third round or beyond, but with the craziness of the draft, he could move up from that. New England, Pittsburgh and Jacksonville are all possible destinations for Jones, as those teams are looking to improve their secondary with young talent to add depth for the future. A dream destination for him could be Baltimore, as he is from there and played for Gilman in Roland Park of Baltimore. Any team looking to add developmental talent in the secondary, that may need return man help would be a good fit.