Former Cowboys CB Byron Jones’ Legendary Combine Performance Happened 10 Years Ago
The 2025 NFL Combine will happen this week, bringing plenty of interesting storylines and insights for the Dallas Cowboys. One key highlight will be new head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s scheduled media session on Thursday, where we’ll learn more about the team’s plans for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, owner Jerry Jones will likely address the media as well, providing updates on key topics like free agency and a potential long-term contract extension for star linebacker Micah Parsons.
Before diving into the present and future, it’s worth taking a look back at one of the most memorable combine performances in history—one that took place a decade ago and left an unforgettable mark on the NFL scouting world.
Byron Jones Stunned the World at the 2015 NFL Combine
It has now been 10 years since the 2015 NFL Combine, an event that proved pivotal for the Cowboys. At that time, the team was still reeling from the controversial “Dez caught it” moment in the playoffs and was focused on strengthening its roster to make another deep run. One of the standout prospects that year was a relatively under-the-radar cornerback from UConn—Byron Jones.
While Jones was already known as a solid college athlete, he skyrocketed up draft boards thanks to an extraordinary display of athleticism. During combine drills, Jones shattered the world record in the broad jump, leaping an incredible 12 feet, 3 inches and sticking the landing. His performance immediately went viral, and NFL scouts and analysts took notice.
As a result, Jones’ draft stock surged, and he quickly became a first-round prospect. The Cowboys, holding the 27th overall pick, selected him as the fourth cornerback off the board, following Trae Waynes (Minnesota Vikings), Kevin Johnson (Houston Texans), and Marcus Peters (Kansas City Chiefs).
Byron Jones’ NFL Career and Advocacy
Jones played out his rookie contract with the Cowboys, proving to be a versatile defensive back who could play both cornerback and safety at a high level. Following his time in Dallas, he signed a lucrative deal with the Miami Dolphins ahead of the 2020 season. Unfortunately, injuries took a toll on his career, causing him to miss the entire 2022 season before eventually stepping away from football.
In his post-playing days, Jones has become an advocate for player health and wellness, emphasizing the importance of athletes taking care of their bodies and ensuring proper medical treatment. His story serves as a reminder of both the incredible feats athletes achieve and the physical toll that comes with playing at the highest level.
As the 2025 NFL Combine kicks off, many new prospects will look to make their mark, but Byron Jones’ legendary leap remains one of the most unforgettable moments in the event’s history.