Standout Performer: Texas Longhorn Christian Jones Impresses at Reese’s Senior Bowl Practice
Several representatives from the Texas Longhorns are participating in the Reese’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, ahead of the NFL Draft. Among them, one standout Longhorn garnered attention during Tuesday’s practice.
Offensive tackle Christian Jones, potentially benefiting significantly from Steve Sarkisian’s coaching, showcased dominance in Tuesday’s session, as reported by ESPN analyst Jordan Reid.
Jones stood out among other notable prospects such as potential CB1 Quinyon Mitchell from Toledo, along with wide receivers Ladd McConkey from Georgia and Ricky Pearsall from Florida.
Reid noted that Jones’ impressive performance in one-on-one drills is elevating his draft stock, potentially solidifying him as a third-round pick.
“I identified players I anticipated would rise over the next few months leading up to the Senior Bowl, and Texas offensive tackle Christian Jones was one of them,” wrote Reid. “He certainly helped himself during the first day of practice in Mobile, displaying plenty of strength against defensive linemen in one-on-one sessions.”
Jones has made significant strides during his tenure at Texas, evolving from a necessity starter to a key contributor across the offensive line.
In the 2020-2021 seasons, Jones maintained an average overall grade of 60.9. However, over the past couple of years, that number has soared to 72.9.
“Jones consistently neutralized pass rushers, much like he did throughout the season; he allowed only six pressures and one sack across 482 pass-blocking snaps in 2023,” noted Reid. “Standing at 6-foot-5, weighing 318 pounds with 34 7/8-inch arms, Jones, initially projected as a late-Day 2 to early-Day 3 pick, is now trending toward third-round status.”
If he continues to excel against top prospects at the event, his draft position will only solidify further.
Joining Jones in Mobile are receiver Jordan Whittington, defensive linemen Byron Murphy II and T’Vondre Sweat, and linebacker Jaylan Ford. The Senior Bowl game is scheduled for Saturday at 1 p.m. ET and will be aired on NFL Network.
