San Francisco 49ers: Regrading 2017 NFL Draft class
By Peter Panacy
Defensive Tackle. Mississippi. D.J. JONES. A.
Round 6: 49ers Defensive Tackle D.J. Jones
George Kittle wasn’t the only gem of a find the Niners made late in the 2017 NFL Draft.
Sixth-round nose tackle D.J. Jones looked to be a solid depth piece right away, supporting the 49ers’ free-agent addition that year, Earl Mitchell. But by the end of his rookie season, Jones was looking more and more like a potential starter.
And in 2018, that role was becoming more apparent.
Yet 2019 was Jones’ moment to shine. He pushed Mitchell off San Francisco’s roster and then was a key component within a stacked 49ers defensive line, even showing some excellent pass-rushing moves from the 1-technique. He even managed two sacks on the year and numerous pressures despite missing five games due to a season-ending ankle injury.
Heading into 2020, Jones could see an even bigger role with defensive tackle DeForest Buckner no longer with the squad.
And if Jones thrives in the additional responsibility, this Round 6 selection could be yet another steal.