Julio Jones: 2011 NFL Draft Prospects

Julio Jones

PLAYER PROFILE

Wide Receiver Julio Jones (H: 6’4″ – W: 220 – College: Alabama)

Jones, to put it simply, is an athletic specimen at his position. After three season with the Crimson Tide, Jones decided to forgo his senior year to enter the 2011 NFL Draft.

In 2008, Rivals.com rated Jones the No. 4 high school prospect in the country. Playing out of Foley High School in Alabama, Jones received offers across the nation after posting 153 receptions for 2,487 yards and 34 total TDs in his final two years.

He decided to stay in-state and committed to play for Alabama. In his time there, it took Jones time to develop into the position. He finally broke out in his junior year with 78 receptions, 1,133 yards and 7 TDs.

Alabama runs a pro-style offense with a high emphasis on running the football, so Jones’ statistics do not jump off the page in comparison to a more pass-oriented offense. With this in consideration, his junior year should be considered something very special. Alabama had a trio of stellar running backs, including 2009 Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram.

Jones enters the 2011 NFL Draft as a top receiver prospect despite requiring surgery on his fractured right foot. The injury will need to be rehabbed leading up to the season but does not appear to negatively affect his draft stock.

SCOUTING REPORT

Strengths: Great size, frame and length. Disciplined route runner with enough quickness to get separation underneath. Terrific blocker, gets downfield and uses his hands to his advantage. Surprising speed, great leaping ability and absolutely explosive. Wowed scouts at the combine. Plays through injuries. Competed against tough SEC opponents throughout his career. Good after the catch and can break tackles. Still possesses a ton of upside. Can work the middle of the field.

Weaknesses: Uses his body to make catches. Will drop balls. Needs to stay relevant in offense as he will get complacent with no action. Needs to stay focused on the game, gets lazy. Injury concerns but seems willing to play through them.

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