TJ Jones scouting report

To wrap up the 2014 NFL Draft, we are going to take an in-depth look at each Detroit Lions pick. Next up is TJ Jones.

WR TJ Jones (Notre Dame) - Round 6, Pick No. 189

The Lions may have added a tight end/wide receiver hybrid by taking Eric Ebron in the first round, but there was still a need for some extra depth at receiver. To fill this need, the Lions drafted Notre Dame's TJ Jones, who is a more traditional wide receiver, in the sixth round.

Measurables

Height: 6-foot-0 | Weight: 188 pounds

Stats

2010: 23 catches, 306 yards, 3 TD
2011: 38 catches, 366 yards, 3 TD
2012: 50 catches, 649 yards, 4 TD, 1 carry, 8 yards
2013: 70 catches, 1,108 yards, 9 TD, 9 carries, 67 yards, 2 TD

Random fact

Jones' late father, Andre Jones, played for the Lions for six games during the 1992 season.

What the experts are saying

NFL.com:

Athletic, smooth-moving, polished receiver who runs crisp routes, has terrific hands and boasts NFL bloodlines. Balanced skill set, dependability and versatility will be valued at the next level, where he could be a productive No. 2 or No. 3 receiver in a sophisticated passing system. Arrow pointing up.

CBS Sports:

COMPARES TO: Jason Avant, WR, Philadelphia Eagles - Neither is the biggest or fastest, but like Avant, Jones is reliable running routes and catching the football and will carve out a role in the NFL.

ESPN:

Jones lacks ideal suddenness and top-end speed. However, he is a polished route runner who has good feel as a route runner and possesses above-average body control and hands. He adds depth as a possession receiver and has a chance to develop into a quality No. 4 target for the Lions.

Videos

More:

• Jones vs. Temple (2013)
• 80-yard touchdown catch vs. Pittsburgh
• 36-yard touchdown catch vs. Navy
• Pinstripe Bowl feature on Jones and his late father
• Interview at NFL Combine
• Highlights from high school
• Jones swims with sharks

Outlook for 2014

Jones has a real chance to get immediate playing time as a slot receiver in the Lions offense thanks to the uncertainty surrounding Ryan Broyles' health. If Broyles isn't ready for the start of the regular season, Jones could be called upon to get a lot of work in the slot. And even if Broyles is ready to go, Jones could still make the 53-man roster as extra receiver depth and a contributor on special teams.

Previously: TE Eric Ebron, OLB Kyle Van Noy, C Travis Swanson, CB Nevin Lawson, DE Larry Webster, DT Caraun Reid