Auburn Football: Defensive Depth Chart Projections – Cornerback

Nov 29, 2014; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive back Jonathan Jones (3) intercepts the ball in front of Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Christion Jones (22) in the third quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Jonathan Jones

One of the most pleasant surprises of the 2014 Auburn football season was the play of junior cornerback Jonathan Jones.

The 5-foot-10 182-pounder started all 13 games for the Tigers last year and played more than 50 snaps per game on average. Jones totaled 36 tackles and one tackle for a loss, defended 17 passes and tied for the team lead with six interceptions – several of which came at key moments in close games.

For example, Jones had two interceptions in the end zone for the Tigers in the 42-35 win over South Carolina on October 25. His first came early in the fourth quarter with the Gamecocks driving to take the lead and the second pick occurred on a last-play Hail Mary that sealed the Auburn victory.

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Jones also picked off two passes against Mississippi State, snagged an important interception in the end zone earlier in the season against Kansas State and picked off Alabama’s Blake Sims.

His season-long performance earned the Carrolton, Georgia native second team All-SEC honors from the league’s coaches.

As good as he was – especially when it mattered most – Jones was far from perfect.

“As a junior, you’re going to look back and say what can I improve on for next year,” Jones said in December. “Honestly that’s what I did. I’m happy for the accomplishments but looking back at what can I improve on for next year.”

Jones will need to become more consistent, avoid pass interference penalties that plagued him at times last season and play better in man coverage. And he’s less talented than the top corners Muschamp and T-Rob have had at their disposal recently – primarily All-American Vernon Hargreaves III.

However, because of his strong season last year, and as long as he stays healthy, Jones is nearly certain to earn a starting spot at corner next season.

Next: Joshua Holsey