Duke Football: Dominant second half pushes Blue Devils past Temple

2. Daniel Jones should declare for the NFL Draft

Jones, a redshirt junior with one year of eligibility left, has a massive decision to make. He is highly regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. ESPN’s Mel Kiper has Jones ranked as the No. 3 quarterback in the 2019 NFL Draft, while Todd McShay has him ranked 7th.

A few of the reasons that Jones is ranked so highly were on display against Temple in the Independence Bowl. Jones threw for 423 yards and five touchdowns, displaying excellent accuracy on several deep throws and making throws while under pressure and getting knocked down. Jones picked apart the Temple defense and when Jones was forced out for a series, the Blue Devils offense sputtered with back-up quarterback Quentin Harris throwing a pick-six that gave the Owls the lead.

His talent level isn’t the only reason to enter the NFL Draft. This is a weak crop of quarterback prospects, which will instantly elevate his draft stock. Looking ahead a year shows a strong 2020 class, including Justin Herbert and Tua Tagovailoa – a class that could push him several rounds down.

More: Why Justin Herbert made the right decision to return to Oregon

In addition, Jones loses all three of his leading receivers to graduation as well as the left side of his offensive line. Replacing that production won’t be easy and any step-back could hurt Jones.

Finally, Jones can’t afford to risk another injury to his body. Jones was nearly knocked from the game in the first quarter when he was hit low and re-injured his ankle. Jones has a long history of injuries including a broken wrist in high school, a broken collarbone and bum ankle this year. Another injury could hurt his draft status and push him down the board in 2020.

Jones has all the talent to be a first-round pick in the 2020 draft and should leave now.