2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Avery Jones, OL, Auburn University

• Name: Avery Jones
• Position: OL
• College: Auburn University
• Height: 6’4”
• Weight: 317 lbs.
• X (Twitter): @averyj_jones
• Instagram: @averyj.jones

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

Growing up in Havelock, NC playing football was an easy decision. My city prides itself on the sport, starting as young as Pop Warner. Where I’m from a better question would be “why wouldn’t you want to play football?” I feel like I was destined for it at a young age. My high school had one of the best football teams in the state for a decade. The culture around me created my passion for the game. Even in my small neighborhood, outside of the city, we had a full football field where I started my playing days. Growing up I was always bigger than everyone around me. My mom always said it would help me in the future, she knew that I was destined to play football. 

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My favorite moments from my football life start with my first high school game as a starter on varsity. As a sophomore I received an offer from my home state dream school. Moving closer to home and becoming a starter at East Carolina was a transition that changed the direction of my career. I was then blessed to be able to play in the SEC against teams like Alabama, and Georgia, was a dream come true.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

I always aspired to play in the NFL. My goal has been the same since I played Pop Warner football as a child. I want to continue my football journey at the highest level. I want to win championships, and continue to get better at my craft. I am excited to learn from the best of the best. Lastly, I want to change the direction of my family.

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

I would hang out with Cam Newton. I’m from North Carolina and after Cam got drafted to the Panthers I have always been a huge fan. Also, with him showcasing his talents at Auburn I wanted to do the same thing. Hanging out with Cam would be probably be very entertaining, but I also could learn a lot. 

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

My mother inspires me the most because of her selfless dedication taking care of my bed ridden aunt. My aunt suffered a stroke in 2020 which changed the direction of her life. Ever since then my mother has taken care of her every day. I feel as if I am able to handle multiple things thrown my way, just like my mom. 

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

My favorite offensive scheme is gap. I love to pull to kick out the end man on the line of scrimmage. I like also doubling teaming defensive linemen to linebackers in the second level. Really imposing my will on the opposing side of the ball. I also really like the wide zone, my athletic ability stands out and I’m able to run and get to that second level.

What should we know about Avery Jones the person? 

Everyone should know that I am tough, hard nosed, a quick learner, and someone who will give their all to the betterment of the organization. I can play both guard and center. I started my career playing guard at East Carolina. I thrived at the position and showed off my athleticism. Playing center at the college level allowed me to display my leadership skills and help the team unite to win games. I’m a strong and explosive athlete and I want to show that in the NFL.

What stands out about your film the most?

What most stands out about my film is that I never have a missed assignment. I pride myself in knowing what the defense will do before the play starts. My strength and explosiveness at the line of scrimmage shows in my first two steps. Having natural size and ability gives me an advantage over defensive linemen.

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

My college experience has been filled with adversity. From family situations, to having a rocky road at my first school, I always go back to my faith in Jesus Christ. God doesn’t answer blessings for people who don’t have faith or put the work in. Giving up is a choice, but pushing through is the choice that I always make. I try to take what’s thrown at me as motivation to keep going.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a guy that knows the game of football, a person who hates to lose and will always put in the work to succeed. Throughout my college career, I’ve played over six hundred snaps. I’m durable, tough, and hate to come off the field. I am always ready to learn something new and enhance my craft. As a teammate, I lead by example and try to coach up other players as much as possible. 

What do you love the most about the game of football?

The excitement that I feel right before a play is why I love the game of football. I love imposing my will on the opponent and dominating. The thrill that I get from walking out of the tunnel and onto the field is something unexplainable. Most importantly I love winning and outsmarting defenses. I intend to play for as long as I can because I love it.

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

The most underrated player I’ve played with was my quarterback at East Carolina, Holton Ahlers. He was electric and selfless. Holton always put his teammates first and showed us a lot of love. He led by example as the QB and captain, and was not afraid to take accountability. We always knew what we’d get out of him every single game. Together we managed to get ECU back to the peak of its game.