Andre Jones 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Background: 

• Two-star recruit
• Two-sport high school athlete (football and basketball)

System: 

• Scheme tendencies: 3-4 
• 2022 projected role: Starting outside linebacker

Pros: Andre Jones is an experienced defender with more than 1,700 snaps in his career. For a 250-pound edge defender, Jones plays with good leverage and power at the point of attack. I am a fan of the way he deconstructs blocks with his hands, striking, stacking, and shedding to work toward the football. His hand strength is pivotal for his ability to soften edges and angles. As an edge setter, he does a good job closing the outside track, forcing the RB back inside to his help. Jones has an explosive closing burst once he has located the ball carrier. He understands how to sit and read the mesh point before flowing to the football.

Cons: Andre Jones has a tendency to pop out of his stance and immediately surrender leverage. This leads to playing with high and upright pad levels. As a result, Jones can be displaced off the ball from vertical run blocks. He does not have the lower-body strength to consistently hold up at the point of attack versus the run. Due to his size/frame, playing him reduced inside as a 4i is doing him and your defense a disservice. I would like to see a pass-rush plan for Jones at the top of his rush. Using power to soften edges and create a path to the quarterback is not enough at the next level. Jones lacks refined counter moves and does not utilize his explosive burst off the ball to threaten the outside arc. Jones is an older prospect that will come in at or near his ceiling.

Andre Jones NFL Draft Scouting Report by Damian Parson