2016 NFL Draft: 6 Buckeyes Who Could Leave College Early
By Joe Russo
Nov 14, 2015; Champaign, IL, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Cardale Jones (12) practices before the game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Cardale Jones, JR, QB
Cardale Jones is a strange case. His highs are incredible with last year’s playoff run and enormous arm strength on full display. But the lows are low. Poor decision making, little finesse on touch passes, red-zone problems. Jones has potential in the right system, but it’s highly unlikely he starts again in Columbus, not with Barrett’s return and the likes of Torrance Gibson and Joe Burrow on campus. “12 Gauge” has the physical tools, but that’s the best part of his scouting report.
Why He Goes: Jones has seen the writing on the wall that he might not play again. He has shown that he can’t quite get the system down and was a major part of Ohio State’s early season offensive struggles, especially in the red zone. Really, there’s little incentive to stay unless he thinks he can overtake J.T. Barrett again in the offseason.
Next: Dear Johnny, Win Or Go Away
Why He Stays: Jones finds out he won’t get drafted. He showed plenty of flaws and his tape from this season isn’t great. At least he can get coached up and try to salvage his draft stock or just build his legend on campus as the best back up in school history.
The Decision: Jones leaves Ohio State, but goes no earlier than the 6th round as a project pick.