Name: Darius Jones
School: Pace
Position: WR/RS
Height: 5’7″
Weight: 170
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Some of the goals that I set for my final season of college football were to first, help my team win the conference title and go to the national playoffs all while being one of the captains of my team. Some of my more personal goals were to be first team All-Conference, make an All-American team, have double digit touchdowns, and lead the nation in All-purpose yards, which I ended up finishing 4th in all-purpose ypg.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would say that I’m a player who can change the whole dynamic of the game by just making one play. I am also a student of the game who likes to learn and become a more versatile player.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When studying my game, I first like to focus on special teams because I feel like that can make the difference in a game of two evenly matched teams. As a returner, I like to study the kicker/punter, and how much distance and hang time their kicks have. I also, like to study the kicking teams coverage, and which players get down the field the fastest to make a play. When studying defenses, I like to try and pick up on tendencies of DB’s. Things like, how aggressive they are, do they like to press, and do they bite on double moves. This helps me understand better how I can use some of my strengths to my advantage.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I believe that one of the things that separates me from other players at my position is my ability to make big plays in clutch moments, whether it be on offense or special teams. Throughout my career, I have stepped up and made big plays in the fourth quarter, late in the game, or on 3rd and 4th down when my team has needed it most. I think that also attests to my mindset as a player as well.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
As of right now my plan is to continue to go through NFL pro day training at Elite Performance Training Systems in New Jersey in preparation for a pro day.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
On and off the field, my drive and adaptability are something that stand out. I strive to excel in everything that I put my mind, whether it be football, school, or so on. And to succeed in various environments you must be able to adapt to different circumstances.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL or any other pro leagues?
Wherever I do end up, all I can do is promise to give it my all. I know it takes a great deal of work to get to where I want to be, but it’s something that I love and am willing to do day in and day out.