NFL Draft Player Profile: Travis Jones, Defensive Tackle, Connecticut
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 333 pounds
2021 stats: 48 tackles, 4.5 sacks
Key traits: Strong anchor. Takes a lot to move him. Will routinely stand his ground despite double teams. Moves well, especially for his size. Above average get off on passing downs, utilizing an impressive motor and hand movement. He can play 3 technique on 1st down and nose tackle on 3rd and long, but is best as an a-gap defender.
Ideal position: Defensive tackle (1 technique)
Potential draft spot: Round 3, Pick 76
Why he’d be a good fit: Brandon Williams is an unrestricted free agent this March. Last season, he was paid $12.92 million, while his Over The Cap valuation was a mere $778,000. Even if the Ravens didn’t have numerous key free agents to consider re-signing, which they do, you’d have to make a strong case to bring back Williams.
Enter Travis Jones, who’s approximately the same weight as Williams but three inches taller. Though it may not move the needle on talk radio, having a stud defensive tackle to anchor the middle of your defensive line is very important, especially when playing against great running backs like Nick Chubb, Najee Harris, and Joe Mixon twice a year. Though Jones was able to stand his ground in college, he did seem to get turned at times when pursuing the ball laterally. Jones can be a very good replacement in the event Williams does not return to the Ravens.
Cool side note: rushed for 1,548 yards and 18 touchdowns at running back during his senior year of high school.
Bottom line: There may be better picks at the position, but there won’t be many players that present a better value along the defensive line. Having a stout front has always been a top priority in Baltimore, and Jones can help revamp that unit in a hurry.
Born in Baltimore, Mike had long been drawn to sports of all kinds. Growing up watching Cal Ripken play ever day gave him a great example for which to attack every endeavor he undertakes.
When the Ravens came to town, though, that’s when Mike found his passion. Since that time, he’s tried to gain every bit of knowledge he could. Now as a high school coach, Mike is able to take his film study and appreciation of the game to a new level.
To engage with Mike on social media, follow him on Twitter @MikeFastNFL.