Jaylon Carlies Reflects on Growth at NFL Scouting Combine
INDIANAPOLIS — Out of the many traits that defined 2023 Missouri football, one of the strongest was growth.
Several key contributors, from Darius Robinson to Javon Foster, had stuck around in Columbia for several seasons despite mediocre seasons and lots of turnover, both with personnel as well as coaching. Not only that, they saw significant improvement in their respective games, which helped the Tigers to an 11-win season in 2023.
Jaylon Carlies was no different. The Orlando, Fl. native signed with Missouri in 2019 as a three-star prospect and didn't play much during his freshman season. Through the ups and downs from 2020-22, Carlies became a key contributor for the Tigers in the secondary, and his persistence was rewarded with a dream 2023 season like his other teammates were. Now, he's set to find a home on an NFL team.
"It's a blessing just being here, getting the opportunity that I have. It's been great," Carlies said at the NFL Scouting Combine on Thursday. "Talking to all the teams, it's just an opportunity that I've been dreaming for, and I'm glad I'm here for it."
A big part of Carlies thriving was the continuity he was able to enjoy last season. Defensive coordinator Blake Baker returned for a second season, and most of the personnel that helped turn the Tigers into a nationally awesome unit in 2022 was back for another go-around.
"We just all work together to get better," Carlies said.
Part of that work included wearing different hats on defense. Carlies made the switch from cornerback to safety at Missouri, and he wasn't the only one in MU's secondary to evolve.
"Ennis {Rakestraw} and I both came in at corner," Carlies said. "Ennis started the whole freshman year and he was like 160..so just showing his mentality and his tenacity to just go around and fly around and just be the best that he can be, with him and KAD {Kris Abrams-Draine} making the switch during college from receiver to nickel is one of probably the hardest switches you could ever do. As soon as he got to that position, he's been balling out ever since. So, I mean, it was two great guys to have around with you and get better with."
Now, with the NFL awaiting him, Carlies feels like his versatility can help him immensely, especially in a league that's asking defensive backs to play more roles than ever before.
"I'd say the main thing I learned is that I could really just line up anywhere and play football," Carlies said. "A team can use me anywhere, and I'll adjust to it and I'll get what I need."
