Jon Gaines II Brings Versatility to New Cardinals OL
TEMPE -- The Arizona Cardinals began their Day 3 festivities with the selection of UCLA offensive lineman Jon Gaines II, their first pick (Round 4, Pick 123) in the fourth round.
Arizona's offensive line was previously addressed in the first round with the selection of Paris Johnson Jr., who is capable of playing either tackle or guard.
Gaines brings his own versatility to the table, logging snaps at center, right guard, right tackle and even one snap at left tackle during his career with the Bruins.
2022
All 932 snaps played were at right guard
2021
590 snaps at right guard
122 snaps at center
94 snaps at right tackle
1 snap at left tackle
2020
316 snaps at right guard
62 snaps at center
"I think that's my biggest strength as a player. UCLA blessed me with the opportunity to play all across the offensive line," said Gaines on a conference call with reporters. "I've had a lot of snaps at a lot of different positions and I'm just excited to add versatility. I feel I can play anything, as long I'm able to get on the field, have an impression and help the team out, that's all I want to do at the end of the day."
Gaines says the Cardinals showed interest immediately after the combine.
"Immediately after the combine coach Klayton Adams set up call with me on Zoom, we just talked football," Gaines said. "We talked a lot of ball, talked a lot of team [activities] and just seemed like a really great fit. So I'm just super excited."
As far as fits go and where he expects to play during his rookie season, the Cardinals' newest draft pick just wants to help the team however he can.
"I think we're a little bit too early for that. But I think the biggest thing is I'm able to come in and I can wear a lot of hats for the team and I can help out wherever I can and just help us win games, that's all that matters," said Gaines.
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