The Lions have another new defensive tackle. On Tuesday, the team signed free agent rookie Fredrick Jones, an undrafted player out of Florida State.
What are the Lions getting in Jones?
He is the nephew of former Florida State and New York Jets standout linebacker, Marvin Jones. Marvin was the No. 4 overall pick in the 1993 NFL Draft and played 10 seasons for the Jets as an effective off-ball LB.
Frederick is not built like his lither uncle. Playing at 304 listed pounds for Florida State, he’s beefy through the legs and arms. Jones does have a quick first step for his size.
He’s at his best in isolation against a single blocker. Take this play against USF, where Jones (No. 55 in the middle) notched one of his 4 TFLs from last season and the most impressive play I saw from him:
His ability to quickly shed and discard the center is impressive here. What also stands out is his body control; Jones is balanced and doesn’t overcommit or run himself out of the play after he wins versus the blocker. That trait shows throughout his game film.
FSU even used him as a punt protector in their max-protect scheme, which speaks to their trust in his athletic ability. That is not a role typically given to a defensive tackle, especially one who tested as poorly as Jones did at Florida State’s pro day:
40-yard dash: 5.32
10-yard split: 1.97
Bench: 25 reps
Vertical: 24 inches
3-cone: 7.85
One of the reasons why Jones would appeal to the Lions is his experience in a variety of roles and defensive fronts. FSU switched from a 3-4 to a 4-3 during his tenure. In addition, Jones has played as a 0-tech nose (his primary role) out to some work as a shaded 4-tech.
With all the injuries along the Lions line lately, Jones should get a chance to quickly prove he belongs.
