Elijah Jones (Boston Col.) - 2024 NFL Draft Pick #90 by ARI
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Elijah Jones - Boston College
Position: Cornerback
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 195 lbs
College: Boston College
Player Overview
Elijah Jones is a promising cornerback from Boston College, known for his physicality and athleticism. With a solid frame and good speed, he has the tools to be a versatile defender at the next level. Jones has shown the ability to match up against both outside receivers and slot options, making him a valuable asset in various defensive schemes.
Strengths
- Size and Length: At 6'1", Jones possesses the height and wingspan that NFL teams covet in cornerbacks, allowing him to contest passes effectively.
- Physical Play: He is not afraid to engage in press coverage and can jam receivers at the line of scrimmage, disrupting their timing.
- Speed and Agility: Jones has good straight-line speed and quickness, allowing him to keep up with faster receivers and change directions well.
- Ball Skills: Displays a knack for making plays on the ball, evidenced by his interceptions and pass breakups during his collegiate career.
Weaknesses
- Consistency in Coverage: While Jones has shown flashes of brilliance, he can be inconsistent in coverage, particularly against top-tier competition.
- Tackling Technique: Needs to improve his tackling technique; at times, he can be too aggressive, leading to missed tackles.
- Ball Awareness: While he has good ball skills, he occasionally loses track of the ball in the air, leading to penalties or completions.
Projected Draft Status
Elijah Jones is projected to be selected in the
2nd to 4th round of the 2024 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and physicality makes him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary. Teams may be drawn to his potential as a starter, especially if he can refine his technique and consistency.
Final Thoughts
Jones has the potential to develop into a reliable cornerback in the NFL. With the right coaching and an opportunity to grow, he could become a key contributor to a defensive unit. Teams will be closely monitoring his performance during the pre-draft process, including the NFL Combine and individual workouts, to gauge his readiness for the professional level.