Washington Redskins 2020 Draft Profiles: Brandon Jones, S, Texas

Brandon Jones

Safety

Height: 6’0”

Weight: 205 lbs.

Texas

Strengths:

Brandon Jones is a highly productive safety who’s proficient as a run tackler thanks to his burst and persistence. The Texas product racked up 232 tackles in his four years, with 64 of his 86 during his senior year coming unassisted. Jones is aggressive as a blitzer and while stopping the run, and he uses his strength, force and toughness to punish blockers and ball carriers alike.

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Weaknesses:

However, though a safety, Jones is not as dangerous or effective against the pass, as his range and lateral agility are not his strengths. He scored two interceptions his senior year, but he won’t be a ball-hawking free safety in the NFL. Jones’ straight-line speed is diminished by his lack of quickness, and putting him on wide receivers instead of tight ends at the next level likely won’t be effective.

Why he may fit with Washington:

Clearly, Washington’s defense needs more willing tacklers like Jones who will set the tone with toughness and physicality. As a middle-round pick, the former four-star recruit shouldn’t have to be a do-it-all player; instead, he can be an effective nickel linebacker or primarily a two-down player who can match up with tight ends. If new defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio determines Jones will fit in his scheme, the Texas standout can be an impact player immediately on what was one of the worst rushing defenses in the NFL last season.

Bottom Line:

Brandon Jones projects as a top-notch run-stuffer in the NFL, and while he isn’t as effective in clear passing downs, a smart NFL team will be able to use his skill set in nickel packages to improve against the run from Day One.

Projected Round: 4th