I honestly expected Jones to get snagged earlier this round. He was on my short list of 4-5 players under consideration for 2.09, so to have him fall to me a round later is a bonus.
Not just a
pick. This kid showed he can be a star winning the National Championship off the bench before they changed the offense on him the next year. The Bills were enamored with him for months before they took him in the 4th. Great value play by the Bills (and here by my Preds).
He has some time to develop behind Tyrod Taylor, who is playing out the last year of his deal and trying to earn a big extension. If Taylor doesn't show progression from 2015 he may not get that next contract, which could open a door for Cardale in 2017.
FWIW, while most dismissed Cardale after he was benched mid-season, they didn't look deep enough as to the reasoning behind his benching and ignored the fact that up to that point Ohio State was 8-0 and Jones was undefeated as a starter for his college career. Cardale wasn't necessarily benched for poor play, but moreso because the the new offense implemented after the National Championship season wasn't geared to his skillset and was a better match for his backup (who BTW didn't fare all that well in his place).
Jones would have been a perfect 4th round pick for the PS, however, I just didn't see him making it out of the 3rd. As I said above, I was nervous he wouldn't slide as far as he did.
The kid has legit star talent, great size, and a rocket arm (perfect for Buffalo's winter winds). We welcome him to the Preds and will make room on our TS to be sure he has the time to develop, plus he is already familiar with fellow Preds draftee Michael Thomas!
Welcome to BUFFALO Cardale!
