2012 UCLA Football Player Review: Datone Jones

UCLA’s defensive end Datone Jones sure made his senior year a big one.

Coming into the season, there was a ton of hype surrounding Jones after having a fairly disappointing year in 2011. But

Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

that hype came to reality, Datone totaled 58 tackles, 5.5 sacks and he even caught a touchdown pass against Houston.

Datone’s game really blossomed this year, he was reeking havoc in the backfield; wether it’s sacking the quarter back or even stuffing the running back. Datone did a fantastic job on the defensive side of the ball, not much room to critique his senior season. An underrated aspect was the fact that Jones got tipped many passes this season, creating easy interception opportunities for his teammates and of course, it’s a waste of a down.

Datone Jones didn’t have to return for his senior year, but he did. He really bought in to Jim Mora’s system, and boy did it pay off. His draft stock is through the roof, literally. Jones is now listed as a late first round to early second round pick, according to CBS.com.

UCLA struggled under Rick Neuhiesel to get pressure on opposing QBs, but since Spanos has taken over the defense, the Bruins were elite in turnovers and sacks forced. Last year, Datone Jones really struggled, only getting 3 sacks on the year. But this year, he came back with vengeance. He also improved as a person, he’s one of the most humbled players UCLA has had, always has a smile on his face and he gives back to the community.

If there was a player I would compare him too, it’s former UCLA LB Bruce Davis. They both are huge, and very fast for their seize. Bruce Davis was one of UCLA’s elite defenders, as is Datone Jones.

We wish nothing but the best for Datone as he pursues his career in the NFL.