Nic Jones (CB) – Ball State / Senior
5’11”, 189 Lbs. (Official)
2022 Stats: 11 games, 735 snaps, 23 total tackles, 16 solo, 4 run stops, 12 passes defended, 2 interceptions, QBR when targeted – 68.2
{Reference: https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/nic-jones-1.html}
Awards:
Measurables: Arm – 32-7/8, Wingspan – 77-5/8, Hand – 10 (Combine)
Combine Testing: 40-yard – 4.51, 10-yard – 1.57, Shuttle – 4.34, Vertical – 34.5, Broad – 122, RAS: N/A
Games Watched: 2022 vs Miami (OH), 2022 vs Kent State, 2022 vs Tennessee
PRO’S
Nic Jones definitely plays bigger than 5’11”! He is consistently in WRs throats, space is a thing that doesn’t exist with Jones. Jones’ competitiveness is next level, he is always on 100! His short area quickness is actually top notch in this year’s class. Although his 40 speed isn’t at elite speed he plays all 60 mins at the 4.51 speed. Jones’ hands and ball awareness are elite; it’s almost like he has a magnet in his hands for the ball, 12 PDs & 2 INTs tell the tale! (11:21 left in the 1st qtr vs Miami-OH, Miami QB throws a wheel route down the right sideline to the endzone. Jones has air tight coverage and is able to punch the ball away at the last second saving the TD) He has scheme versatility as he isn’t just an outside DB and can read the receiver well with his back to the ball. Jones also doesn’t shy away from attacking the backfield even at 5’11. Jones also played special teams for Ball State and got his hands on the ball there as well with a block punt this season.
CON’S
Jones is a better man coverage DB than zone so his landing spot could factor on that. Although he plays aggressively, that could be a negative at the next level if he can’t control it (10:58 left in 3rd qtr vs Kent State, QB throws a pass to the right side of the field, Jones sees the screen develop and breaks off his man quickly but over-pursues and can’t finish the arm tackle). Jones needs to work on his angels in the run support department and he can get beat to the outside.
OVERALL
Nic Jones put himself into a mid to late 5th round pick off of his combine results. He was also a Shrine Bowl standout in 1-on-1 drills and the game. His competitiveness and motor will stand out on whatever secondary in the NFL he lands on. Jones will be instant help to any DB room as he can provide instant production. Player Comp: Marcus Jones, New England Patriots
Completed by: @NinoBrown_T2T, 03/24/23
Reviewed & edited: J. Clark, 03/25/23
