Summary

D.J. Jones was drafted in the 2017 NFL Draft, Round 6, (pick 198) out of Ole Miss. Jones is a reliable interior defensive lineman whose game is anchored in power, stoutness at the point of attack, and consistency. He excels when asked to hold ground, plug gaps, and support the run. He may not be the most explosive interior lineman in terms of sack production, but his strength and dependable presence make him a valuable starter in a front that prioritizes gap integrity and run‑stopping.

However, his ceiling is somewhat moderated by his physical measurements and not having dominant, game‑changing burst inside. His performance is also somewhat scheme‑sensitive—he thrives when his role is clear (run‑defense heavy) and may offer less upside as a pure interior pass‑rusher.

Strengths

• Physical power and leverage in the interior – Jones has a stout frame and uses strong lower‑body base to anchor inside and handle blockers. Early scouting described him as “a tough, high‑motor player with the lower‑body power to be an effective anchor.” Bleacher Report

• Run‑defense proficiency – His Pro Football Focus run‑defense grade (≈69.3) ranked him 14th among interior defensive linemen in one evaluation. PFF Also, narratives highlight his role as a run‑stopper when aligned properly. SI

• Consistency and experience – Jones has logged significant snaps, especially with the Broncos, and has started many games, showing durability and reliability as a starter. Denver Broncos

• Pass‑rush trait flashes – While not his primary role, he has recorded multiple sacks and quarterback hits; in 2023 he had forced fumbles and contributions in the backfield. Denver Broncos

Weaknesses

• Limited explosiveness and pass‑rush elite trait – Jones lacks the elite edge burst or bend of top interior disruptors. Some scouting reports noted his get‑off and lateral quickness weren’t standout in draft evaluations. Bleacher Report

• Height/length concerns for an interior – At 6 ft, he is shorter than many interior linemen, which can impact his reach and ability to disengage from blocks or occupy multiple blockers. This has been referenced in evaluations. SI

• Peak production variation and scheme‐fit sensitivity – While his run‑defense grades are strong, his overall performance has fluctuated by season and scheme. One review called into question whether he truly performed up to his contract level when his team’s run defense struggled. Mile High Report

Fit & Outlook

• Fit:
  Jones fits best in defensive schemes that utilize multiple interior linemen, value run‑gap control, and delegate some of the pure pass‑rush burden to edges or outside linebackers. In the Broncos’ system, he is used as a starting 3‑4/0‑tech nose and is expected to help anchor the front against the run. SI

• Outlook:

• Short‑Term: Expect Jones to continue as a full‑time starter interior, playing major snaps in run‑heavy downs, contributing with modest sack numbers and strong run‑defense impact.

• Medium‑Term: If he maintains health and the scheme supports his strengths (gap control, run stop), he could solidify himself as one of the better run‑stopping tackles in the league