According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Denver Broncos are having a pre-draft workout/visit with former USC running back, Ronald Jones. That visit is going down today and will count towards one of their Top 30 visits they are allowed to have prior to the 2018 NFL Draft.
The #Broncos are hosting #LSU WR DJ Chark and #USC RB Ronald Jones on pre-draft, Top 30 visits today, I’m told.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 12, 2018
This is the second visit between the two-sides. Back in early March during the NFL Scouting Combine, it was reported the Broncos met with Jones for a formal interview during that event.
Jones is a 5’11”, 205lb running back who figures to go late in the first round or early in the second round of this months 2018 NFL Draft.
Jones is coming off an impressive 2017 season at USC by totaling 1,550 yards rushing on 261 carries and totaling 14 rushing touchdowns in the process. He averaged an impressive 5.9 yards per carry average this past season while also totaling 14 receptions for 187 yards and 1 touchdown.
He is an explosive back who can house it whenever he touches the ball. He also is very smooth when running with the ball, staying patient and reading his blocks. He would add a big-time home run threat to the Broncos offense.
NFL Network’s draft expert Daniel Jeremiah has Jones ranked as his 29th overall player in this recently released top 50 board.
Jones is one of the most explosive players in the draft. He’s similar to Jamaal Charles in size and style. On inside runs, he’s very aggressive in attacking the line of scrimmage and can avoid defenders in tight quarters. He has tackle-breaking power as a result of his lower-leg drive and he mixes in a violent stiff arm. He has a good feel for the cutback lane and displays exceptional lateral burst. On outside runs, he easily gets to the perimeter and is elusive in space. Once he gets a step, Jones has elite breakaway speed. He has improved as both a receiver and blocker. He fought the ball as a sophomore, but was more comfortable as a pass-catcher this fall. He is aware in pass pro, but still gets caught on his heels at times. Overall, Jones is a threat to score every time he touches the ball and I love his toughness and upside in the passing game.
The Broncos appear to be searching for veteran C.J. Anderson’s replacement despite him currently being on the roster. There are now conflicting reports about the Broncos agreeing to a trade that would have sent Anderson to Miami for tackle Ja’wuan James before Miami backed out. So it appears Anderson will likely be gone before, during, or shortly after the 2018 NFL Draft. They currently have former fourth-round pick Devontae Booker and 2017 sixth-round pick De’Angelo Henderson on the roster, but it appears they want to add some competition.