Dawand Jones 2023 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Background: 

• Played football and basketball in high school. Averaged 17 points and nine rebounds per game while holding multiple D1 scholarship offers for basketball 

• His high school team was undefeated and won the state championship in 2017 while Jones earned All-State honors 
• Four-star prospect per ESPN 

System: 

• Scheme tendencies: Zone rushing scheme, spread passing offense
• 2022 projected role: Starting right tackle 

Pros: Dawand Jones is an absolute mauler in the run game. He’s a massive and powerful blocker that blasts open running lanes and he can be overwhelming for opponents in college. Jones engulfs opponents as a run blocker and puts them on skates. He has ideal block temperament, aggression, and tenacity. Jones has exceptional length and he uses it effectively in pass protection where he does well to protect his edges and elongate rush lanes. Jones has the type of power in his hands where he frequently stuns opponents and his hands are not easily displaced. His grip strength is outstanding. Despite not having the most nimble feet, Jones is a patient pass blocker that competes to stay square and is deliberate about working his punch to keep rushers at bay. 

Cons: Dawand Jones has stiff hips and heavy feet, which creates some challenges in pass protection. While he is effective at using his length to protect his edges and elongate the path for rushers, his feet often lag behind and he lacks the reactive athleticism to keep pace. He struggles to redirect his weight, often creating a two-way go for rushers. Jones is top-heavy with unnecessary weight—I believe he would benefit from dropping weight and working toward a more balanced frame. Jones is unlikely to be an appealing prospect for zone rushing schemes given his modest range and he doesn’t project as a candidate to kick inside to guard to mitigate some of his mobility concerns.

Dawand Jones NFL Draft Scouting Report by Joe Marino