2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Marlon Jones Jr, DB, Eastern Washington University

• Name: Marlon Jones Jr
• Position: DB
• College: Eastern Washington University
• Height: 6’0”
• Weight: 190 lbs
• Twitter: @mjjr_6
• Instagram: @mjjr_6

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

I had an uncle who recently passed away who played in college and I really looked up to him. from there I really just found a passion for the game.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

I’d say getting put onto full scholarship after my first year being at EWU. I had really worked hard to come off an injury and prove that I could contribute to the team and it was nice to see the hard work pay off. Another moment would be my first interception, just being able to produce and contribute something to the rest of the team felt really nice.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

I would say my dad (Marlon Sr.) mainly because he was the first person to teach me the game of football and has been supportive every step of the way. He has also taught me how to be a man and what it means to work for the what is important to you. Through him I’ve gained confidence and ultimately learned how to change my perspective on how I approach not only football but my life as well and I’m grateful that he has been with me my whole life continuing to make sacrifices to see me pursue my dreams.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

Specifically for me I’m excited to play my first whole season at corner, after moving around from nickel and cornerback, this will be the first season where I play corner only, I feel like I have a lot of potential I have not yet reached and I feel like I will be able to reach that at corner. As far as the team I’m excited to continue to grow as a leader and help others grow individually to make us better collectively.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

I think I would go with Budda Baker. I have a lot of respect for his game and his mindset. I’ve been watching him since he was at UW, both northwest guys so I think it’d be cool to sit down and talk to him about his journey and just life in general.

What are your favorite things about playing football for Eastern Washington?

Some of the things I like about playing at EWU include the fact that it’s in my home state, which makes it easy for my family to come to my games and reach me if needed. I also appreciate the fact that I have seen the growth and development in myself compared to when I first arrived and much of the credit goes to the coaching staff and the program here at EWU. Another thing that I love is the fact that I’m always going against some of the best receivers in our league every year in practice, even going back to when we had Eric Barriere at quarterback former Walter Payton award winner. Just going against guys like him had really helped me grow as a player.

What should we know about Marlon Jones Jr the person?

I’m a pretty reserved person, I’ll be graduating in the fall and hopefully one day become a nurse.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

As a defensive back and someone who has played nickel, I’m a big fan of 4-2-5 defensive schemes, I think with that 5th defensive back with someone who’s versatile at that spot you’re then able to do more in coverage as well as the run game. For example if we feel like a team is more of a 10/11 personnel team we are now able to have 5 defensive backs on the field which is typically a better situation for match ups.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I try to take a step back, renew my mind and picture the end goal. Whatever I’m going through in the moment will eventually be over, or it will have been worth it. Because I’m able to acknowledge that I will have challenges and that there will be pressure at times, I am able to move through those obstacles instead of letting them have a negative affect on my life/performance. I also have no problem asking as much questions or gathering information to find out what it is that I’m struggling with in order to improve. Being open and honest with things that are challenging you is the first step in turning those weaknesses into strengths.

What would a team get in a player like you?

I think a team would get a person who absolutely loves the game of football. someone who is a competitor and who will work for every opportunity. A person who is passionate and willing to learn from anyone. Someone who is caring and wants to see others succeed. A smart player who is versatile and understands different positions within the defense. I believe I would be able to provide value in several areas such as defense and special teams.

What stands out about your film the most?

I think my ability to play different positions. I believe my coverage is a strength. Good technique, patience, the ability to make tackles.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

Probably Eric Barriere in my opinion. Really quiet guy but just some of the plays that I’ve seen him make, still amaze me to this day. There’s a lot of things he did that not many other people could do on the field. He ended up winning the Walter Payton award and received other recognitions but I would’ve loved to see him with more of an opportunity in the NFL.