LSU Defense Takes Big Hit: Jones Leaves for NFL

All-SEC free safety Chad Jones and his family released a statement today announcing that he will forgo his final season at Louisiana State University to enter the NFL draft.

The LSU athletic department and coach Les Miles have not confirmed Jones’ decision.  Miles is currently attending the NCCA football coaches' convention in Orlando, FL.

Jones, the Tiger’s fifth leading tackler in 2009 and emotional leader on defense, leaves an enormous hole in the LSU secondary.

Jones has brought a great deal of leadership to the LSU defense despite only being a full-time starter for one season. 

His remarkable performance against Mississippi State in September 2009 gave him instant credibility as a starter and leader in John Chavis’ new defense.

After returning a punt 93 yards for a touchdown to give the Tigers the lead, Jones was instrumental in a goal-line stand that kept the Bulldogs from regaining the lead. 

Jones followed up on Kelvin Sheppard’s initial hit on MSU quarterback Tyson Lee to keep him out of the end zone. Jones then made an incredible knock down of what looked to be a sure touchdown pass to MSU tight end Marcus Green after Lee executed a play action pass to near perfection.

Jones’ efforts against the Bulldogs earned him SEC Player of the Week honors and pushed him directly into the spotlight as an LSU fan favorite.

It is unclear at this time whether or not Jones has hired an agent. If he has, he forfeits his final year of eligibility with the Tiger football program and final two seasons of baseball eligibility. If he has not hired an agent, Jones has until Jan. 18 to change his mind and return to LSU.

Jones leaves LSU with national championship rings in both baseball and football. 

It goes without saying that he will be missed dearly by the LSU fans and athletic department.