Mississippi State football's defense has taken a big step forward this season compared to last. They've improved in points allowed per game from 34.1 to 26.3, and they've approved in yards allowed per game from 456.4 to 388.7.
A big reason for that leap has been the play of cornerback Kelley Jones. The redshirt sophomore has seen incredible growth as a player, going from a raw talent still learning to play the position to becoming one of the very best corners in the SEC. He's consistently shut down his side of the field, making life much easier for State DC Coleman Hutzler.
In fact, Kelley Jones has grown so much this season, that he's receiving serious buzz as a potential high pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Perhaps even the top player taken at his position...
"I believe Mississippi State's Kelley Jones has a chance to be the top cornerback in this class."Mel Kiper, ESPN
ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper, the Father of the Mock Draft, raved about Kelley Jones while reporting the latest intel for the 2026 NFL Draft. He sees Jones as a prospect that could shoot up draft boards with the season he's having.
"At 6-4 and 195 pounds, he can fly. Watch for him to run around 4.4 seconds or better in the 40-yard dash. Jones also has incredible length, ball skills and overall feel for coverage. The third-year sophomore seems comfortable with his back to the QB, able to turn to locate the ball in the air. And he's disruptive at the catch point, with nine pass breakups and two interceptions this season."
Fans have known for a long time that if Kelley Jones could ever put it all together, he'd have a chance to be a star ar cornerback given his size and athleticism. But no one realistically thought we'd be talking about him as a potential first round pick going into the season. His development has been truly remarkable, and the speed at which he's burst onto the NFL Draft scene is even more impressive.
If Mel Kiper is noticing you, there's no doubt NFL teams are paying close attention, too. Mississippi State has had a strong pedigree of NFL corners in recent years between the likes of Darius Slay, Martin Emerson, and Emmanuel Forbes. Kelley Jones may soon be joining them.