Just like that, the 2023 NFL Draft is just two days away! While everyone scrambles to piece together the puzzle that is predicting what will happen on Thursday night as they construct their final mock drafts, let’s take a look at one last player in this draft cycle: Georgia’s likely first-round offensive tackle Broderick Jones!
Strengths: Jones is a really good athlete. He is very comfortable playing in space, reaching the second level quickly and showing the agility to latch onto a defender at that level. His athleticism allows him to pull across the offensive line effectively and to redirect his weight with ease. Additionally, Jones has the lateral quickness to get depth on his pass sets and seal the edge. Jones is a great technician, demonstrating consistent hand use in pass protection to get into the defender’s chest and control him, as well as good grip strength to sustain blocks. He extends his arms well when he gives up a step to a defensive lineman around the edge, steering his opponent away from the quarterback. Jones destabilizes defenders with his technique, frequently stymieing their pass-rush moves and uprooting them by getting under their pads and making them stand up too tall in their rush. He is also very aware, keeping his head on a swivel and showing the ability to pick up multiple blocks in one play when needed. Jones has a real mean streak, as he blocks tenaciously through the whistle and is always looking for work. He excels in the run game, showing solid power to generate movement and good intelligence to position himself to steer open running lanes.
Weaknesses: Jones’s anchor is solid but at times, he gives up a step or two against powerful bull rushers, causing the pocket to start collapsing. Furthermore, Jones’s base is a bit narrow, and very fast and bendy rushers can cause him issues around the edge as a result. Jones reportedly carries character concerns.
Bottom Line: Jones is a really solid offensive tackle prospect who I think could have a long, successful career at the position in the NFL. Jones is a really athletic, strong, technically sound, and gritty blocker who excels in both the passing and running game. His reported character concerns are worth considering but hopefully will not impact his bright future in the NFL.
Tune into the Bold Take Scouting Podcast live on YouTube at 10:30 pm ET on Wednesday as I and fellow scout Alex Greb reveal our final 2023 NFL mock drafts!
