It’s clear on film that Jones possesses natural speed and get off which immediately poses questions of offensive tackles. Converting that speed to power consistently and finding more nuanced ways to escape a block will be needed in the NFL.
However, the defensive end class is spotty this year. Most of the top prospects have concerns or flaws they need to address.
Jones has been consistent over the last two years and his college experience means teams may feel they have a better grip on what he is. As opposed to other prospects with less tape available and more question marks.
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— Pitt Football (@Pitt_FB) February 6, 2021
Hear from Patrick Jones II about earning 2020 Consensus All-America, his week at the Senior Bowl, preparing for the upcoming NFL Draft and more.
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Does Jones II fit what the Bengals need in 2021?
Having traded experienced defensive lineman Carlos Dunlap to the Seahawks at the trading deadline, the Bengals defensive line was severely short-handed. Paired with the impending free agency of Carl Lawson it means that there needs to be a solution at the position either through the draft of free agency.
Even if Lawson does re-sign or gets the franchise tag, depth remains a problem. Outside of Lawson and Sam Hubbard, there is a major lack of production. Depending on two edge rushers only in the modern NFL is near impossible. Adding a talent like Jones who can provide sack production would be beneficial.
If the Bengals did plump for Jones in the 2021 draft you can expect him to start as a pass-rush specialist. He can sit behind Lawson or another experienced end should he depart. Jones should enter the fray on passing downs and third downs, allowing the Bengals to bump Sam Hubbard into the interior.