Draft experts always say the later rounds are about acquiring talented prospects with high upside. Players that can serve as depth but with some development may become starters down the line. That is exactly what the Chicago Bears did with their first selection of Day 3. After trading down three times to start his afternoon, GM Ryan Poles finally made a pick when he added Southern Utah offensive tackle Braxton Jones to the roster.
Rest assured this young man is fitted. He moves quite well for somebody 6’5 and 310 lbs and he boasts outstanding 35-inch arms. There is also tons of power in his frame. The problem most have with him is the typical stuff. His fundamentals and technique are raw. He’ll probably need a year of work before he’s ready to face NFL competition. The upside is significant if the Bears can get the light to go on though.
With the 168th overall pick in Round 5, the #Bears are selecting Braxton Jones OT Southern Utah
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) April 30, 2022
#Bears draft OT Braxton Jones at 168. pic.twitter.com/fXHsFpKXBZ
— Will DeWitt (@Wi11DeWitt) April 30, 2022
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On Saturday, #SouthernUtah LT Braxton Jones (#77) played like a prospect who wants to be drafted in the first 4 rounds in April.
Jones played really clean vs. SJST. Efficient movement patterns, used his length (34 7/8” arms). Another big test Thursday at Arizona State. pic.twitter.com/DnMACM43IK
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) August 30, 2021
The @seniorbowl is looking live at @ASUFootball vs @SUUFB_. If there was a prop bet for highest drafted sub-FBS prospect the betting favorite would be Southern Utah LT Braxton Jones. No telling how high @braxtonjones742 could go by April.#TheDraftStartsInMOBILE™️ #BestoftheBest pic.twitter.com/a5S2OlPXzP
— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) September 3, 2021
People started taking notice of Jones at the Senior Bowl.
He held his own in drills throughout the week and looked like he belonged. Then he added further to his stock by running a 4.97 in the 40-yard dash at the combine. Remember, he’s 310 lbs. That is a remarkable time for somebody his size. It was clear evidence he has the athletic chops for the NFL. It was an issue of his game being underdeveloped in certain areas and not being proven against top competition.
The Chicago Bears aren’t strangers to taking tackles in later rounds. Charles Leno Jr. was a big success for them as a 7th round pick. Hopes remain high for Larry Borom, a former 5th round pick. Braxton Jones has the talent. It is a matter of whether he can master the details of his position and isn’t overwhelmed by the speed of the pro level. Time will tell. A worthwhile gamble.
