2014 NFL Draft: Inside Linebacker Prospects You Should Know

Nov 9, 2013; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Florida State Seminoles linebacker Christian Jones (7) hits Wake Forest Demon Deacons quarterback Tanner Price (10) during the first quarter at BB

Christian Jones – 6’4 232lbs – Florida State

Jones has consistently improved every year he’s been playing with the Seminoles. In 2011, Jones racked up 56 tackles, six tackles for a loss, and two forced fumbles. His junior year in 2012, he notched 95 tackles, seven tackles for a loss, and two forced fumbles. Jones has had somewhat of a fall off this year but that’s no coincidence. FSU sent three defensive lineman to the NFL last year and have used Jones intermittently at defensive end which could affect any inside linebacker’s stats, though he is still the highlight of the Seminoles defense. Jones is not known for his pass rush abilities but considering most inside linebackers aren’t often asked to rush the passer, this is no deal breaker. Jones, like Mosley, is excellent in pass coverage but to take his game to the next level, he’ll need to work on his awareness and change passes defended into interceptions. So far this year, Jones has had 39 tackles, two sacks, and one interception. I believe Jones will be drafted in the mid to late second round.