Ohio State quarterback Cardale Jones, who tweeted earlier this afternoon that he would make a “life-changing decision” today, has announced that decision. In advance of tonight’s early entry deadline, the redshirt sophomore indicated he will return to Ohio State for his junior year rather than entering the NFL draft.
Jones himself acknowledged earlier this week that he may not be ready for the NFL, though the young signal-caller’s stock has certainly soared in recent weeks, as injuries opened the door for him to take over as the Buckeyes’ starting quarterback. Jones started three games, leading Ohio State to victories in the Big Ten Championship over Wisconsin, in the Sugar Bowl over Alabama, and in the National Championship over Oregon.
Despite his incredible late-season run, there are no guarantees Jones will even see much playing time at Ohio State in the 2015 season, with Braxton Miller and J.T. Barrett still expected to be in the mix. If he had turned pro, Jones would have done so as part of a class that is considered weak at the quarterback position, and would have had the opportunity to earn a rookie salary.
Still, Jones’ draft position was uncertain, given his lack of playing experience at the college level. ESPN’s Todd McShay (Insider-only link) wrote earlier this week that he thought Jones would be a fourth- or fifth-round pick, adding that most scouts viewed him as a Day 3 prospect.