Marvin Jones Jr., EDGE, Oklahoma
Size:
Height: 6’5” (v) | Weight: 247 lbs (v)
Accomplishments:
Five-star recruit (No. 2-ranked EDGE in the country)
Entering 2024, Marvin Jones Jr.’s projection remains as fluid as any prospect in the class. He flashes the explosiveness and pass-rush potential to evolve into a major contributor, however.”
Strengths:
Heavy hands
Alignment-versatile
Athletic
Explosiveness
Concerns:
Muddied projection considering prior role at Georgia
Evolving pass-rush repertoire
Film Analysis:
Entering 2024, Marvin Jones Jr.’s projection remains as fluid as any prospect in the class. He flashes the explosiveness and pass-rush potential to evolve into a major contributor, however. He aligned primarily as a contain defensive end whose primary role on early downs was to keep runs inside. Also recorded snaps over the slot, a spot that failed to showcase his best ability as a pure pass rusher.
Against the run, Jones showcases the willingness to mix it up at the line of scrimmage. Attacks contact with his hands and he can ‘win’ with his hands first. Plays with good leverage and anchor to maintain responsibility on the outside. Good pursuit from the backside where his athleticism showcases well. Looks to have the requisite length/strength profile to be an impact player on early downs. However, more snaps are needed to identify his floor/ceiling as a potential early-down defender.
As a pass rusher, Jones flashes the traits that made him a five-star recruit. Excellent get-off with the bend to run the arc. Also has the hands and power to win through, and to, the inside of offensive tackles. However, as is the story with Jones currently, more snaps are needed to finalize his prospect profile. Utilizes a quick two-hand swipe to win to either shoulder (Alabama). Also has shown the ability to mix up his looks. Will flash his hands only to quickly bring them to his body, reduce surface area with his shoulder, and get around the arc.
Overall, Jones' profile as a prospect remains one that will evolve week-to-week in 2024. A slated starter for the Seminoles, a full workload for Jones as a pass rusher will showcase his true ability. The utilization of his skill set at Georgia did Jones a disservice as he attempted to compete for snaps within a loaded Bulldogs front seven. Recording as many snaps (6) in coverage as he did as a pass rusher in the SEC Championship Game showcased the questionable deployment of his skill set last fall. But in that minimal work (237 snaps) last fall, there are flashes to believe Jones’ best football remains down the line.
Prospect Projection: Day 3 — Developmental Traits
Written by: Ryan Fowler