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Green Bay Packers: Grading past five first-round draft selections

By Freddie Boston

Dec 27, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Green Bay Packers safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (21) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Packers 38-8. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Green Bay Packers safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (21) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Packers 38-8. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 21, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end Datone Jones (95) runs with the ball after he intercepted the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Green Bay Packers defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-3. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end Datone Jones (95) runs with the ball after he intercepted the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Green Bay Packers defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-3. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

2013: DE Datone Jones

A year after taking Perry, the Packers tried their luck on another defensive player in Datone Jones. On draft night, NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock praised the selection:

"“Because Green Bay plays a 3-4 defense, this kid is an ideal fit. I love this kid’s upside. He fits the scheme. He’s the only one I saw who beat Eric Fisher all week long in one-on-one.”"

Unfortunately, Jones is yet to live up to the billing. Over three years, he hasn’t justified his first-round tag. The 2015 season was his best yet — he spent more snaps at outside linebacker than at defensive end. It will be interesting to see whether this move continues entering his crucial fourth season.

Over three years, Jones has tallied just eight sacks. He’s flashed potential with some outstanding moments but has been unable to make his presence felt on a consistent basis. His two-sack performance in Minnesota last season was fun to watch, but this wasn’t a regular sight.

Jones became the third first-round selection in a row who failed to meet expectations. There’s still a chance he turns the corner, but his future looks more of a solid rotational piece than a star.

Grade: C

Next: 2014

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