Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Dave Jones () - 1971 NFL Draft Pick #286 by BAL

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Dave Jones - 1971 NFL Draft

Player Overview: Dave Jones, a standout defensive back from the University of California, was a highly regarded prospect heading into the 1971 NFL Draft. Known for his agility and ball-hawking skills, Jones was expected to make an immediate impact at the professional level.

• Position: Defensive Back
• College: University of California
• Height: 6'1"
• Weight: 190 lbs
• Draft Class: 1971

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Jones possessed elite speed, allowing him to cover ground quickly and keep up with fast receivers.
• Ball Skills: He had a knack for intercepting passes and creating turnovers, making him a valuable asset in the secondary.
• Football IQ: Jones demonstrated a strong understanding of offensive schemes, enabling him to anticipate plays and react accordingly.

Concerns:

• Injury History: There were concerns about his durability after suffering minor injuries during his college career.
• Physicality: While effective in coverage, scouts questioned his ability to tackle effectively against larger, more powerful NFL players.

Projected Draft Position:

Due to his impressive college performance, Dave Jones was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1971 NFL Draft. Teams were particularly interested in his potential as a starting cornerback or safety.

Potential Impact:

If drafted by the right team, Jones had the potential to become a key contributor in the defensive backfield, potentially earning a starting role by his second season. His ability to force turnovers could greatly benefit any team's pass defense.