Analysis (Taylor O’Neill): Safety Josh Jones out of NC State has a great combination of size and athleticism to play strong safety in the NFL. At 6’1, 220 pounds and running a blazing 4.41 40, Jones is explosive both as a tackler and in coverage. It’s even possible that the Packers could eventually move him to a dime linebacker position in the future, as they’ve experimented with Morgan Burnett.

Jones is a raw player, and he needs some time being coached up to play smart, not over-relying on his athleticism to make plays. His speed and aggression can get the better of him as he runs around the field and overpursues the ballcarrier. On-field discipline is a problem for him.
Still, discipline can be taught, and Jones is a seriously fast and tenacious player, which are two traits that the Green Bay defense needs sorely.

Team Fit (Mike Wendlandt): Jones is an athletic freak who can do a little bit of everything for Dom Capers. In the nickel, he can step in immediately in the strong safety spot when Morgan Burnett moves up to ILB. Great sideline to sideline speed and agility, he can be a centerfielder is needed but will also come up and hit.

With his ability to read the quarterback, he can be the upgraded version of what Micah Hyde was the past few seasons. A do-it-all safety who can play in the slot, in the box, or centerfield. He will need some seasoning, but his ceiling is extremely high and if Jones and Kentrell Brice are on the field together, receivers beware.

Player Comparison (John Piotrowski): The Packers are looking at a prospect similar to Eric Reid. With their 2nd pick of the 2nd round, the Pack continue to stockpile the secondary. Everybody loves a relentless safety, and this is a forte of Jones.In a secondary that was reactive this past season, Jones is inclined to attack instead.

Top 200 Rank(Ross Uglem): 125- I didn’t see safety as much of a need going into the draft.  I ranked him 7th at safety, though, so the value is fine.  This cements Burnett’s status as a hybrid linebacker.

PFF Draft Guide (Ross Uglem):  86.2 coverage grade.  Passer rating against of 50.0.