Despite Achilles Tendon Surgery Sidney Jones “Best Corner In Draft”
By Bret Stuter
![Nov 25, 2016; Pullman, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Sidney Jones (26) carries the the Apple Cup Trophy after a game against the Washington State Cougars after a game at Martin Stadium. The Huskies won 45-17. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports Nov 25, 2016; Pullman, WA, USA; Washington Huskies defensive back Sidney Jones (26) carries the the Apple Cup Trophy after a game against the Washington State Cougars after a game at Martin Stadium. The Huskies won 45-17. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/564f5c5444b814e59695bbef690ba65342645a942754a07b0e63814c7a326a9c.jpg)
Bench Time Is Learning Time
There was a day not so long ago when rookies seldom started NFL games in their first year. It was nothing against them, it just wasn’t the way it was done in those days. But poorly performing teams began to feel the pressure of “win now”. And so, teams began to throw their top picks to the wolves, essentially forcing a “sink or swim” outcome.
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Quarterbacks. Cornerbacks. Edge Rushers.
Do or do not. There was no more room in the NFL for watch and learn.
But as teams began to cycle rookies into the starting lineups, there became a secondary market as well. Overhyped “Bust” players making a career comeback with new teams. And so now, NFL teams feel pressure to make it happen instantly. But they also feel pressure to work patiently.
Patience Back In Style
So quality players who are dinged up are given a better look. The talent is their. Sports medicine has removed much of the dangers of reinjury. So the most prevalent remaining factor facing Sidney Jones, and other injured hopefuls, heading into the NFL Draft is when will he be ready.
Each day on the bench is another day increasing his experience. Each day a rookie spends in the NFL, the novelty wears off. The fans become background noise in the stands. the game slows down. Easing into the lineup is just a better way to start off an NFL career.