It's never too early to talk about the NFL Draft, and the New York Giants should already be targeting this player.
The New York Giants put together what many considered to be one of the best hauls of the 2026 NFL Draft, landing linebacker Arvell Reese and offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa in the first round while also netting some other impressive talents.
But with the Giants still in rebuilding mode, it's never too early to start looking toward next year's draft class.
New York is entering 2026 with some very clear needs, and perhaps none are more glaring than cornerback.
Yes, the Giants selected Colton Hood in Round 2 back in April, but their depth at the position is still very thin.
Fortunately, the 2027 class is slated to be loaded with cornerback talent, and Big Blue fans should already be making themselves familiar with one player in particular: Mississippi State star Kelley Jones.
Jones may very well be one of the most intriguing prospects at any position heading into the upcoming college football season.
The 24-year-old stands 6-foot-4, giving him beyond elite size for a corner. And while he may not possess Darrell Green-like speed, he is a terrific athlete capable of covering tremendous ground because of his length.
Mississippi State cornerback Kelley Jones. Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images.Jones has also demonstrated a terrific nose for the ball, as he tallied 11 passes defended in 2025. He also snared a couple of interceptions.
There is no question that Jones has some things he needs to improve upon. He could stand to add some weight to his frame, as he checks in at 195 pounds. He also can be a bit too physical at times, which can get him in trouble on the professional level.
But there is no question that the towering defensive back has immense talent and potential.
There will be plenty of compelling cornerbacks available next spring. Notre Dame's Leonard Moore is considered the best prospect of the bunch, and names like Georgia's Ellis Robinson IV, Alabama's Zabien Brown and Clemson's Ashton Hampton should absolutely be monitored, as well.
However, it's hard not to be enamored with Jones due to his exceedingly rare combination of size and athleticism.
Cornerbacks are starting to get bigger, so being over six foot at the position is certainly not out of the ordinary. But 6-foot-4 is almost unheard of outside of Riq Woolen.
It's obviously very early, but Jones is a name the Giants should definitely be watching right from the get go this fall.
NY Giants Roundtable also offers a fan community and message board. We’d love to have you join us to talk all things Giants. Click the “Join” button at the top of the page to join our community for free.
