The time is now for junior DaQuan Jones to emerge as a significant contributor and playmaker for the Nittany Lions' defensive line. The past two years, Jones was able to observe and learn from first-team All-America defensive tackle Devon Still and is a prime candidate to team with senior Jordan Hill on the first unit. Jones possesses a challenging combination of size, strength and quickness in the trenches. The former defensive end has made very good progress during the past year and could emerge as an impact player. The former Johnson City High School standout played in every game last year, recording eight tackles.
2011 Sophomore Season
Jones was a top reserve at defensive tackle and played in every game, recording eight tackles, including four solo stops. He made two hits each in the non-conference play against Indiana State and Eastern Michigan. Jones saw action on 247 snaps, including a high of 30 against Houston and 29 at Wisconsin in the battle for the Leaders Division title.
2010 Freshman Season
The coaching staff held Jones out of the initial four games for a possible redshirt season, but his play in practice and potential got him on the field. He made his debut in the Big Ten-opener at Iowa and played in the final nine games. Jones played tackle most of the season, but was forced to play defensive end against Illinois in his second game, when injuries knocked three ends from the field. One of seven true freshmen to play, Jones made six tackles, with two tackles for loss and a sack. Jones had a season-high three hits at Ohio State, including a tackle for minus-three yards. He made two solo stops against Florida in the 2011 Outback Bowl, including a sack for minus-four yards. He saw action on 168 snaps, topped by 58 against Illinois.
High School
Rated as the No. 2 offensive lineman by Rivals.com, Jones was a standout on both sides of the ball for Coach Fred Deinhardt at Johnson City HS. A Scout.com four-star player, Jones tallied 70 tackles during his junior season. He also recorded three sacks and recovered four fumbles. He was a football and basketball team captain and also on the track and field team.
Personal
Full name is DaQuan S. Jones. He is undecided on a major. Born December 17, 1991 in Johnson City, N.Y.
