Cowboys are expected to pick up the fifth year of Byron Jones contract

The Dallas Cowboys made Byron Jones their first-round pick in the 2015 draft out of the University of Connecticut. The versatile defensive back, as a first-round pick, has a team-option fifth year on his rookie contract. The Cowboys are expected to make it official and pick up that option according to an inside source.

Jones hasn’t lived up to the expectations that come with being a first-round pick, but he has been a useful part of the defense. After spending time playing corner in his rookie year, the Cowboys tried to convert him into a safety with mixed results. He never seem to settle into the position and lacked the natural instincts for the position, with tackling angles always an issue.

With the arrival of secondary coach/passing game coordinator Kris Richard to the Cowboys coaching staff, Jones will be moved to cornerback full time. Richard prefers big, athletic corners and that fits the profile of Jones.

The $6.17 million value of the fifth year is going to be a bargain for the Cowboys if Jones proves his worth at corner. The Cowboys have until May 3rd to make it official.