Seahawks DE Dre'Mont Jones Has ‘More to Prove’ Despite Big Contract
The Seattle Seahawks made a big splash in free agency, bringing in former Denver Broncos defensive end Dre'Mont Jones on a three-year deal worth over $51 million. The move bolstered the Seahawks' defensive front, which was a weak spot for them last season.
Seattle made a big commitment to Jones, and he is determined to hold up his end of the deal. Jones said on Thursday that, despite the big payday, he's keeping the same mindset that got him to this point.
"My approach has been the same since I got to the NFL, kind of playing out there with the chip on my shoulder," Jones said. "This contract kind of proves my worth, but I know I got more to prove and more to do. I'm trying to get on Bobby [Wagner's] level."
Wagner, who returned to Seattle this offseason after spending last season with the Los Angeles Rams, is already making a strong impression on Jones. The pass rusher praised Wagner's leadership skills, as well as his personality off the field.
"It's been fun man," Jones said. "Great leader, great personality. The football stuff comes later, but just to get to know him right now as a person, he's a good dude."
Wagner wasn't the only one to earn Jones' praise, though. The former Bronco also lauded defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt, believing the sky is the limit for him.
"I can see Coach Hurtt being one of those All-Time great coaches when he's done," Jones said. "He has a voice with the players, voice with the team. People who respect what he says and take account of what he says. I've enjoyed playing under him so far."
Jones has also impressed his coaches in his brief time in Seattle. Head coach Pete Carroll said Jones' transition to the Seahawks' scheme has been "smooth as can be," making for a strong first impression.
"Learning the concepts and principles of stuff that we're doing, and we're learning him too, because he's got special talents, and we want to make sure that we accent them and use them. We're learning that as we go. He's been really consistent about everything."
Perhaps Jones feels so comfortable in Seattle is because he nearly came to the city last year. The Seahawks wanted him as part of the Russell Wilson trade, but the Broncos refused to include him. Jones says that development drew his eyes to the Seahawks because they "respected me from the jump."
Now that he is officially in Seattle, he is keen on making the most of his opportunity.
You can find Jonathan Alfano on Twitter @JonAlfano_News
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