As one of the biggest prospects in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft, Ohio State OT Dawand Jones has obviously garnered plenty of attention. Earlier this year, at the 2023 Reese’s Senior Bowl, Jones set a new record for the longest wingspan of any prospect to measure in at the event. In this 2023 NFL Draft scouting report, we’ll breakdown Dawand Jones, as well as offer a predicted 40 time, injury history, player comparison, and NFL Draft projection.
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Dawand Jones 40 Time
I have Dawand Jones predicted to run a 5.49 40 time at the 2023 NFL Combine. This time is considerably slower than the league average, but you also have to factor in Jones’ height and weight. At the 2023 Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, Dawand Jones measured in at 6’8 and 375 lbs. On game film, he has better explosiveness out of his stance than you would expect, but the quickness in his game ends there.
Dawand Jones Injury History
Earlier this season, Dawand Jones missed the game against Indiana for an undisclosed reason. He was a game-time decision, but ultimately, did not participate. Additionally, after a solid first day of practice at the 2023 Reese’s Senior Bowl, Dawand Jones sat out the rest of the week after reporting concussion-like symptoms. However, he was on the sidelines to support his teammates and remained engaged.
Dawand Jones Scouting Report
Pros
- Extremely Good Size And Strength For The Offensive Tackle Position
- Generates Good Drive And Push In The Run Game
- Anchors Well And Keeps The Pocket Clean
Cons
- Speed Off The Edge Is A Struggle For Him
- Doesn’t Possess The Agility That Others In This Draft Class Do
- Inconsistent When It Comes To Finishing Blocks
Dawand Jones is a three-year contributor at right tackle for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He burst onto the scene as a full-time starter in 2021, and built upon that foundation this season. He has very good height and weight for the offensive tackle position, although some teams may wonder if he’s too big. His predicted 40 time of 5.49 is poor, but when his size is factored in, it is understandable.
Jones possesses very good strength to lock out with one hand and drive the defender to create space in the run game. Routinely generates good push at the point of attack to open up running lanes. Has good explosiveness out of his stance, especially for someone his size. Displays good footwork to keep his legs moving and generate maximum leverage throughout the rep. Shows a good ability to anchor and hold his ground versus outside rush.
However, aggressive and combative hands off the edge can be a struggle for him. Struggles against speed on inside gaps. Needs to reach and engage second-level defenders with more intense urgency. Lacks the agility and awareness necessary to excel as a lead blocker. Would like to see him finish blocks with more consistency. Footwork and agility in pass protection can be a liability versus edge rushers. Spin moves and stunts can be a struggle for him to handle.
Dawand Jones Player Comparison
My player comparison for Ohio State OT Dawand Jones is New England Patriots OT Trent Brown. At the University of Florida, Brown contributed at guard, as well as tackle. At the NFL Combine, Trent Brown actually measured a little bit taller than Jones did at the Senior Bowl, but size and playing-style are a match.
Dawand Jones NFL Draft Projection
I have an early-to-mid second round grade on Dawand Jones. He has incredible size and strength, which NFL teams will covet. However, at times, his size is a liability at offensive tackle. I don’t believe that he’s someone that will excel at guard, but rather, tackle is a natural position for him. There are clear ways to beat him, as the tape shows, which NFL coaches will have to shore up.
Right tackle is an early fit for Dawand Jones, with a move to left tackle possible down the road. His ability to create space in the run game is excellent, and something that an offensive coordinator should look to make full use of. Speed and twitchy rushers off the edge is going to be an early struggle for him, but also an area that I believe he’ll improve in.
Potential fits in the NFL could be teams that are looking for an offensive tackle to protect a young franchise quarterback. The Arizona Cardinals, Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, and Indianapolis Colts are all potential fits for Dawand Jones.
