New England Patriots Draft Profile: Swing Tackle Christian Jones

The New England Patriots could turn their attention to Texas Longhorns tackle Christian Jones as a developmental swing option in the upcoming NFL Draft.

As the New England Patriots make their final preparations for the NFL Draft, director of scouting Eliot Wolf and his brain trust are undoubtedly looking for ways to maximize each of their selections. 

While quarterbacks and skill position players dominate the dreams of fans and media alike, the importance of adding depth to a needy offensive line is perhaps the Pats biggest concern heading into the upcoming season. 

If the Pats are looking to add a solid reserve option, with notable upside, a name to watch may be Texas’ offensive tackle Christian Jones. 

Feb 1, 2024; Mobile, AL, USA; American offensive lineman Christian Jones of Texas (70)

Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

Throughout the past four seasons, Jones has been one of the Longhorns most reliable and versatile offensive linemen. Despite earning his first starting spot in 2020 at right tackle, he moved to left tackle and had a strong year blocking for ex-Texans running back Bijan Robinson, now a member of the Atlanta Falcons. In 2022, Jones went back to right tackle and remained there for 2023. Jones could be a versatile swing tackle backup to start out his pro career.

At 6-5, 305 pounds, Jones is proportionally built, with a massive wingspan. As a result, he effectively uses his power and length to solidly anchor himself as a blocker. However, the Cypress, Texans native must prioritize his conditioning at the pro level to improve his agility and footwork. While he might be a work-in-progress as a pass protector, his size and length should make him an NFL-ready contributor as a reserve run blocker from the outset of his rookie season. 

Despite re-signing starting right tackle Mike Onwenu at the start of free agency in March, Jones (if selected) In conjunction with their struggles at quarterback, a significant portion of the blame for the Pats’ anemic output in 2023 can be attributed to the porous nature of their offensive line. Ranking in the lower third of the NFL in nearly every measurable metric, it should come as no surprise that New England may be eager to invest  draft capital to repair a severely fractured unit. In fact, their need at the position may have been further enhanced by the loss of former starting left tackle Trent Brown, who signed a free agent contract with the Cincinnati Bengals last month. 

With the No. 3 overall selection, New England is widely expected to address the fans’ demand at quarterback. However, there is merit to forging a new foundation with a solid building block at offensive tackle. Fortunately for the Patriots, this year’s draft class is also considered to be rich with talent at the position. Should the Pats entertain the idea of drafting Jones, they may be able to do so on Day 3. 

If selected, Jones would presumably join newly-acquired Chukwuma Okorafor, and veterans Conor McDermott, Calvin Anderson, Vederian Lowe and Andrew Stueber in competing for a reserve role as a swing tackle.