The Cleveland Browns tabbed LSU linebacker Jacob Phillips in the third round of the 2020 NFL draft. Could they take his successor at LSU in a similar spot in the 2021 edition of the draft?
Jabril Cox is generally projected as a third or fourth-round pick, though after an impressive Senior Bowl week he could be moving up. And the Browns would be wise to take note. Cox is a great fit for what Cleveland needs at linebacker.
Cox is a little under the radar as a transfer from North Dakota State. He played just the 2020 season at LSU after dominating for the FCS powerhouse Bison. He’s got coverage skills, explosive athleticism and a good eye for the ball. All of those have been on full display in the first two days of Senior Bowl practices in Mobile.
From Brian Bosarge of Deep Fried Draft, one of the stalwart veterans of Senior Bowl coverage,
“LSU LB Jabril Cox continued his hot start to the week. He does a great job in coverage.”
As an example, this is a 1-on-1 drill where Cox is in man coverage against a running back in Wednesday’s practice. He makes this look easy,
Jabril Cox carrying up the seam.
So effortless @_Brillo pic.twitter.com/WNDBxigzPe
— Jake Morley (@JacobMorley) January 27, 2021
Jabril Cox is unfair pic.twitter.com/ejIA6o8asA
— Tyler Forness (@TheRealForno) January 28, 2021
Cox even won during the weigh-in day. His physical measurements, other than the tiny hands, are exactly what NFL teams are looking for in a linebacker these days:
Those are really good numbers for Jabril Cox. Made some great coverage plays this season https://t.co/OYYxzhrI0Q
— Jon Ledyard (@LedyardNFLDraft) January 26, 2021
Cox is definitely a player to keep an eye on for the Browns. Remember, there are deep LSU ties all over the Cleveland roster.
