NFL Draft picks 2015: Byron Jones drafted by Cowboys

With the No. 27 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys selected cornerback Byron Jones out of the University of Connecticut. Jones leapt his way into the spotlight with his performance at the combine in February, when he set the world record for the standing broad jump with an eye-popping mark of 12 feet, 3 inches.

The 22-year-old defensive back started 37-of-43 career games for the Huskies at both safety and cornerback during his four seasons in Storrs. He played in just seven games during his senior year before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury, finishing with 24 tackles, four pass deflections and two interceptions in 2014.

Jones rocketed up the draft boards after his combine performance, and then solidified his stock as one of the top DB prospects with an impressive 4.36 40-yard dash at his pro day in March. A lanky defender with incredible athleticism and upside, Jones has the smarts and instincts to be a solid defensive back in the NFL. He is also known as a high-character player, a team captain and leader on the field, which should help him fit into any locker room in the league.

One concern is that Jones lacks above-average man coverage skills, and his footwork is subpar compared to the top cornerback prospects. He could be a better fit as a free safety at the next level, though he might lack the tackling instincts and physicality to excel at that position.