Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Damon Jones (Southern Illinois) - 1997 NFL Draft Pick #147 by JAX

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1997 NFL Draft Pre-Draft Analysis: Damon Jones

Player Profile:

• Name: Damon Jones
• College: Southern Illinois
• Position: Offensive Tackle
• Height: 6'5"
• Weight: 300 lbs

Overview: Damon Jones was a standout offensive tackle at Southern Illinois, showcasing both size and athleticism that made him an appealing prospect for NFL teams. His ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes for ball carriers was critical to his college team's offensive success. Strengths:

• Excellent size and length for the offensive tackle position.
• Strong lower body, allowing him to anchor well against bull rushers.
• Good footwork and agility, enabling him to move laterally effectively.
• Experience in both pass protection and run blocking schemes.
• High football IQ, showing good awareness on the field.

Areas for Improvement:

• Needs to improve hand placement and technique to avoid penalties.
• Can be inconsistent with his footwork, especially in quick pass situations.
• Limited competition level at Southern Illinois may raise questions about his readiness for the NFL.

Conclusion: Damon Jones was projected to be a mid-round selection in the 1997 NFL Draft. His combination of size, strength, and agility made him an intriguing prospect, but teams would be cautious due to concerns about his level of competition and technical refinement. If he could polish his skills and adapt to the professional game, he had the potential to become a reliable starter in the NFL.