Byron Jones Bright Spot for Connecticut Huskies Defense in 2014

By Tyler Brett
byron jones
David Butler II – USA TODAY Sports

The Connecticut Huskies figure to once again struggle on the football field in 2014 as they try to build their program into an AAC contender. Despite their futility on the field to find the win column with regularity, however, there is some talent to like for the Huskies this fall. In particular, cornerback Byron Jones should shine individually as one of the best cover-corners in college football next season.

Jones will be a four-year starter for the Huskies this fall and brings a wealth of experience to go with his long frame and good athleticism. At 6-foot-1 and 196 pounds, Jones has the size to mix it up with receivers at the line of scrimmage and has spent time at both corner and free safety, making his as versatile as anyone on the UConn defense.

Last season, he used that blend of size and athleticism well, recording three interceptions and eight pass breakups in coverage while being a willing tackler in run support as he tallied 60 tackles. Jones has proven himself to be a stopper on defense, whether against the run or the pass, during his career at UConn and will continue to do so in 2014, even if the Huskies don’t find tremendous success in the win column.

It can be difficult to recognize talent when they are stuck on a team that is struggling but there should be no question about the defensive ability of  Byron Jones in 2014. He has developed into a great player with a unique blend of size, toughness, and athleticism that should make him the best corner in the AAC this fall and an intriguing prospect for the 2015 NFL Draft.

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