When the Washington Commanders selected Louisiana Edge rusher Andre Jones Jr. in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL draft, many had never heard of him.
That’s not Jones’ fault or a representation of who he was as a player. It’s just the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns didn’t have a national television presence. Louisiana was a highly successful program during Jones’ career there. Still, Washington’s fifth-round rookie, Edge K.J. Henry, was much more known than Jones because he played at national powerhouse Clemson.
Washington is excited about Henry, and rightfully so, but they also like Jones’ potential.
At 6-foot-4 1/2, 248 pounds, Jones is built similarly to Henry. And with Washington’s top five defensive ends slated for free agency in 2024, Henry and Jones have a shot to impress as rookies.
Here’s Lance Zierlein of NFL.com’s scouting report on Jones ahead of the draft:
Long-limbed edge defender with an angular frame and a willingness to take on all comers. Jones’ production might not jump off the page, but he’s athletic and uses his length to put himself in position to make tackles. Jones could use more strength in his lower half both as a run defender and pass rusher. While they aren’t sustained, there are flashes of rush potential that might create a roster opportunity after a year on a practice squad.
Jones is exactly the type of prospect you target on Day 3 of the draft. He has the size, athleticism and work ethic to develop into a valuable contributor in the NFL.
Now, let’s check out some of his college highlights.
