Pitt Football
DE Patrick Jones another Pitt Player to Explore 2020 NFL Draft
The strength of the 2019 Pitt Panther defense was the depth at defensive end, which was led by junior Patrick Jones.
In his breakout season, Jones registered 42 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, had four forced fumbles, 18 quarterback hurries, recorded 8.5 sacks and was rewarded for his efforts by being named to the All-ACC Second Team.
When you’re a junior and have a season like this, it’s only natural to wonder what NFL teams think of you and where you might go in the draft.
That’s exactly the situation Jones finds himself in as Pittsburgh Sports Now has confirmed that like teammate safety Paris Ford, Jones has submitted paperwork in order to find out his NFL Draft grade. Like with Ford, if Jones is told that he currently has second round talent, he would likely declare for the upcoming 2020 NFL Draft.
Patrick Jones (91) September 21, 2019 — David Hague/PSN
Jones is the prototype NFL defensive end because of his size (6’5″, 260) and ability to get after the quarterback with his strength and speed. Following the season-ending injury to Rashad Weaver, Jones stepped up in his first year as a starter and was the leader of that defensive end spot.
If Jones decides to return to Pitt, the Panther defensive line will be loaded with the return of talented players such as himself, Weaver, Jaylen Twyman, Deslin Alexandre, John Morgan, Keyshon Camp, Habakkuk Baldonado, Devin Danielson, Tyler Bentley and a handful of freshman that redshirted.
Coming out of Grassfield High School in Chesapeake, Virginia, Jones was only rated as a 2-star recruit so credit to him and the Pitt staff for his development and ascension to a legitimate NFL Draft prospect.
Don’t want to lose him or Paris, but it is good for the program, and the individual if they grade out high enough. Jones’ stock may not be this high next year when the focus will be back on Rashad Weaver. Jaylen Twyman is a RS Sophomore, he should explore his options as well. Want them all back, but if these young men are ready for the NFL, and they want to move to the next chapter of their life, then I wish them nothing but success. I can see them all playing on Sundays in the years to come,… Read more »
Morrissey
Pittband,
I love Morrissey’s leadership, but he is an average, at best, power 5 center. Look at the team’s terrible short yardage results this year. If they can’t rely on him for a 3rd and 2 or 4th and 1, he is not NFL caliber. He will be successful in life, but probably not in the NFL. I would love to be proven wrong though. H2P!
Curious, named 1st team All ACC. Didn’t Clemson use a center this year? You saw the line collapse last year when he broke his foot. He’ll play in the NFL, may not be a 1st or 2nd rounder but centers never are. He’s got it between the ears which is what separates centers from offensive linemen.
Very well said Bob
Given likely reduction in playing time as injured players come back. They should explore options.
Just my prediction but I think that Jones is headed to the draft. I think he will grade out pretty well especially with NFL teams putting a premium on edge rushers.