2013 NFL Draft: Georgia LB Jarvis Jones predicts he won’t get past Steelers
By Matt Shetler
As the 2013 NFL Draft rapidly approaches, one of the main questions remaining one the table is whether or not Georgia linebacker Jarvis Jones will be around when the Pittsburgh Steelers select at No.17.
November 17, 2012; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Jarvis Jones (29) shown on the sidelines during the game against the Georgia Southern Eagles during the first half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Georgia Southern 45-14. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
If he is, Jones doesn’t think he will be around much longer than that.
"“If I even get to 17, I don’t think I get past the Steelers,” Jones told NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport. “I mean, from what I’ve been told, I don’t think I get past the Steelers.”"
If he’s available for the Steelers, it’s almost a certainty the Steelers take him as he fills an immediate need as a pass rusher and playmaker from the outside. But given other teams needs ahead of the Steelers, there may not be a great chance of that happening.
Jones didn’t have great pre-draft workouts, but has great film as he was one of the most dominant defensive player in the nation a year ago and did so against the best competition in college football.
The New York Jets, who hold the No’s. 9 and 13 picks will almost certainly target an explosive pass rusher and could take either LSU’s Barkevious Mingo or Jones. If Jones gets past the Jets, he may not get past the New Orleans Saints at No. 15 as they will almost certainly be looking to add a pass rusher as well.
Its good news for the Steelers if he gets past New Orleans, as judging by his comments, the Steelers may have their man if he gets to them.