Packers: 2017 draft class will lead turnaround on defense
By Jesse Fry
Josh Jones
Jones seems to be first in line to replace the departed Morgan Burnett.
Coach McCarthy stated he felt too much was thrown at Jones during his rookie season, and that he will begin this season strictly as a safety. While I feel Jones would be better suited as a chase LB next to Blake Martinez, the fact that he will get a chance to focus on one area should help his development.
Jones has the size and speed to excel as the new-age NFL safety. He can play down in the box and be an extra run defender. He also has the speed to keep up with tight ends in coverage. Jones also showed a knack for the blitz as seen in the game against the Bengals in Week 3.
If Jones can put it all together and get rid of the mental mistakes that plagued his rookie season, the Packers should have an impact defender for years to come. And if Jones is eventually moved to the other nickel LB spot, the Packers have players like Kentrell Brice and Marwin Evans, and possibly a draft pick, to fill the safety spot.
At LB, Jones has all the tangibles to be an impact sideline-to-sideline player. When I think of Jones in the LB position I think of a Deion Jones type player. Not saying he will be the same player as the Falcons defender, but he has the potential to make a trouble spot a strength.