Cowboys Select CB Byron Jones In First Round

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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) -- The Dallas Cowboys stayed patient and selected cornerback Byron Jones from Connecticut with the 27th pick in the first round of Thursday's NFL Draft.

Jones, a senior captain at UConn, spent 2011 and 2012 as a safety. He converted to cornerback before a shoulder injury ended his season in October. He says he is at 100 percent after surgery.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones says the team likes Jones' versatility -- and the possibility of playing him both at cornerback and free safety.

"We like what we see on that tape," said Garrett, referring to Jones' freshman and sophomore seasons at safety. "I do believe that it's a realistic projection that he could play corner in this league and he can play safety in this league."

Garrett did say that Dallas would start Jones at cornerback; however, should Mo Claiborne return to form, Jones could shift to safety.

Described as a "freak athlete" by many, Jones set the broad jump world record at the NFL Combine, with a 12'3" leap.

He also ran a 4.43 40-yard dash at his Pro Day and had a 44-inch vertical leap.

Jerry Jones was quick to point out that the 22-year-old is much more than a "workout warrior."

Most scouts agree, giving Jones a first round grade. Jerry says the Cowboys had the UConn standout as the 15th or 16th best player on their board.

Jones has the athleticism for cornerback, but looks and tackles like safety at 6-1 and 199 pounds. He was a senior captain at UConn with impeccable character that has coaches gushing about his intangibles. Factor in the athletic prowess and Jones has created a ton of positive buzz -- and he didn't have to run the 40-yard dash to do so.

-- CBS SPORTS

CBS Sports' Pete Prisco gave the Cowboys an "A-" for the pick.

"The Cowboys never thought this kid would be here. They have a major need at corner, and they land one at No. 27. He´s much more than just an athlete."

The Cowboys still have six selections remaining. Rounds 2 and 3 will take place on Friday.

2nd round (60)
3rd round (91)
4th round (127)
5th round (163)
7th round (236)
7th round (243)

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