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Welcome to the fifth edition of the New York Giants 2012 NFL Draft profile. Today we are looking at Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones, who has been shooting up draft boards all throughout the draft process.
As I’ve said previously, multiple times, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if Jerry Reese goes after a pass rusher early, in part because of Dave Tollefson but mostly because of Osi Umenyiora’s expiring contract.
It also has a lot to do with the value of the players the Giants will likely have to choose from at No. 32 in the draft. They could use a running back and an offensive lineman, but don’t expect Reese to reach for one of those players.
In fact, the Giants may even look to move back in that spot to pick up a draft pick. However, of the draft profiles I’ve done so far, there is no way the Giants would pass on any of them, including Jones.
Jones projects best as a 4-3 defensive end at the next level. He has incredibly long arms and is quick, agile, and has a great work ethic. He anticipates the snap well and has a incredible first step. His run defense is technically sound, very rarely does he get pushed back and he uses his long arms to stay disengaged until he can make a play on the ball.
He doesn’t have elite strength and can play high at times, but he is still raw and can improve at the next level. He will also need to add some weight so as not to get pushed around by elite tackles.
Here are what some scouts are saying about Jones.
ESPN Scouts Inc:
Best fit will be as a LDE for a 4-3 scheme. Can develop into 5-technique if he continues to get stronger and learns proper technique. Has good core strength, room on frame, and long arms. Appears to have enough athleticism to occasionally drop and play in space but has some stiffness in hips. Has experience reducing inside to a three-technique on obvious passing situations, as well.
ESPN’s Mel Kiper:
He’s gotten bigger, but my guess is teams will still see him first as a 3-4 OLB. Jones has long arms and moves well, and the tape shows offensive linemen struggling to keep him engaged.
Chandler Jones has been projected anywhere from top 15 to the third round, but I would be surprised if he fell into the second round.
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