2021 Senior Bowl: 3 First Round Caliber Players to Watch For

3. Patrick Jones II (Edge) – Pittsburgh

Every Senior Bowl, there is always one or more defensive linemen or edge rushers that boost their NFL Draft stock significantly. These are players that either rises deeper in the first round or into the second round. Last year, South Carolina defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw became a high-caliber defensive line prospect while Auburn defensive tackle/end boosted his stock to the second round.

This year, Pittsburgh Panthers edge rusher Patrick Jones II has a chance to boost his draft stock significantly from borderline late first-round/early second-round prospect. Jones was one of the most effective playmakers for the Panthers’ defense for the past two seasons.

For the past two seasons at Pittsburgh, Jones has accumulated 83 total tackles, 49 solo tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 17.5 sacks, four pass breakups, and four forced fumbles. This season, Jones accounted for 42 total tackles, 24 solo tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, nine sacks, and three pass breakups.

Jones is a defensive lineman who can contain the edge consistently, crash into the backfield, and chase down the ball carrier. He has the size that most NFL scouts and coaches are looking for as he measures at 6-5, 260 pounds. He contains a great combination of speed and athleticism along with strength and explosiveness in his point of contact with the offensive line.

Currently, Jones is regarded as a late first-round to early second-round prospect. There are teams like the Tennessee Titans and the Baltimore Ravens that are looking for reliability at the edge in containing the run and disrupt the passing game.

The defensive end/outside linebacker dual-position player is a position that is picked early in the NFL Draft along with quarterbacks and offensive linemen. If Jones can play consistently and show progress as an edge rusher, he could boost his draft stock significantly.