Baltimore Ravens Attend Connecticut Pro Day to Scope out Cornerback Byron Jones

Oct 11, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Connecticut Huskies cornerback Byron Jones (16) looks for a signal against the Tulane Green Wave in the third quarter at Yulman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports

The Baltimore Ravens, quite obviously in need of some cornerback help, were in attendance at Connecticut’s Pro Day to scope out Byron Jones, as reported by the Baltimore Sun. Jones certainly didn’t disappoint with his performance, running the 40 yard dash in a blazing 4.36 seconds. It’s a nice addition to his already impressive combine performance that included a 44.5 inch vertical and 12’3″ broad jump (which, by the way, would have been a world record).

Jones also recorded 18 reps on the bench press, a pretty stout number for a guy who goes 6’1″ and 199 pounds. A converted safety, Jones played both basketball and football in high school and obviously has the athletic ability to show for it. In addition to gifted physical ability, Byron Jones is also widely praised for his instincts on the field and the toughness to play through injury.

Jones does need to show improvement in his footwork and playing stance, as he often plays with a high center of gravity. He doesn’t change direction well and has a tendency to lose his balance. He is a willing and able tackler, but is not overly physical. Still, Jones is a high character guy who has the vision and instincts to play cornerback in the NFL.

A projected second round pick, Byron Jones could provide the kind of versatility teams like the Ravens covet. With the ability to play free safety or corner, Jones has tantalizing speed and instincts that will translate well to the pro’s. If the Ravens can’t get a corner they like in the first round, perhaps they can scoop up Jones in the second.

Next: Defensive Backs Stole the Show at the NFL Combine

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