Chargers' Steal: 5 Reasons Why Nash Jones Is The Undrafted Free Agent To Watch In 2025

The story of Nash Jones is a perfect example of how the NFL Draft is just the beginning, not the end, of a player's journey. While the Texas State offensive lineman was projected as a potential Day 3 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, he ultimately went undrafted, only to immediately become one of the most sought-after undrafted free agents (UDFA) on the market, signing a priority deal with the Los Angeles Chargers.

As of December 16, 2025, Jones is now fully immersed in the Chargers' system, aiming to prove his "Day 3 talent" was simply overlooked. His powerful, versatile play on the offensive line and his impressive performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl have made him a legitimate contender to not only make the 53-man roster but potentially become a key depth piece for Coach Jim Harbaugh’s new-look team.

Nash Jones: Full Biography and Career Profile

Nash Jones is a massive, versatile offensive lineman whose collegiate career saw him excel at multiple programs before becoming an All-Conference player at the FBS level. His journey is marked by high-level production and a reputation for being a powerful presence on the interior offensive line.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

• Full Name: Nash Jones
• Date of Birth: March 29, 2002
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 23
• Hometown: Nacogdoches, Texas
• Primary Position: Offensive Guard (OG)
• Secondary Positions: Offensive Tackle (OT), Offensive Lineman (OL)
• Height: 6'5"
• Weight: 320 lbs
• College: Texas State University (2022-2024)
• Former College: University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) (2021)
• Key College Achievements: All-Sun Belt Honorable Mention (Texas State), 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl Participant, Protected future NFL QB Cam Ward at UIW.
• NFL Draft Year: 2025
• Draft Status: Undrafted Free Agent (UDFA)
• Current NFL Team: Los Angeles Chargers (Signed 2025)
• Contract Details: UDFA deal including a $15,000 signing bonus and $15,000 guaranteed at signing.

The Shocking Draft Day Slide and Chargers' UDFA Priority

The 2025 NFL Draft saw a deep class of offensive linemen, which unfortunately pushed some talented prospects like Nash Jones out of the seven-round selection process. While many analysts pegged Jones as a "high Day Three pick," likely in the 6th or 7th round, his name was never called.

However, going undrafted is a common path for future NFL starters, and Jones’s immediate signing with the Los Angeles Chargers signaled he was considered a high-priority UDFA. The Chargers, under new head coach Jim Harbaugh, prioritized adding size and depth to their offensive line, and Jones fit the mold perfectly.

The Value of the Guaranteed Money

One of the most telling signs of a team's interest in an undrafted player is the guaranteed money offered. Jones’s contract included a $15,000 signing bonus and $15,000 guaranteed at signing.

• The Enduring Legacy Of Haylor 5 Shocking Facts About Harry Styles And Taylor Swifts Relationship 10 Years Later Sf662

This guaranteed money is a significant investment for a UDFA, indicating that the Chargers’ front office and scouting department saw him as more than just a training camp body. This financial commitment ensures Jones a legitimate shot to compete for a roster spot, likely at the offensive guard position where the team sought additional depth.

The Texas State Connection and Versatility

Jones’s versatility is a major asset. He began his career at Incarnate Word (UIW) where he served as the blindside protector for quarterback Cam Ward. He then followed head coach GJ Kinne to Texas State, where he transitioned to a primary role as a powerful interior lineman, earning All-Sun Belt Honorable Mention honors.

This experience playing both tackle and guard gives him the flexibility the Chargers desire in their depth chart. His ability to anchor against power rushers and his impressive arm length are traits that translate well to the NFL's interior offensive line.

• The Untouchable Privacy 7 Secrets Of Rachel Mcadams And Jamie Lindens Life Beyond The Red Carpet E820e

Scouting Report: Why Nash Jones "Raised His NFL Stock"

Nash Jones's draft stock saw a significant boost following his performance at the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl, one of the premier pre-draft showcases. His week of practice against other top-tier prospects proved he belonged on the professional stage.

Scouts often highlight several key attributes that make him an exciting prospect for the Los Angeles Chargers.

Strengths: The Power and Size Combination

• Elite Size and Length: At 6'5" and 320 lbs, Jones possesses the prototypical size for an NFL offensive guard. His arm length is a notable asset, allowing him to engage defenders early and maintain leverage.
• Raw Power and Anchor: Jones is known for his brute strength, particularly in pass protection. He has a strong anchor, making it difficult for interior defensive linemen to bull-rush him. This power is crucial for the Los Angeles Chargers' run-heavy philosophy under Jim Harbaugh.
• Position Versatility: Having played Left Tackle at UIW and primarily Guard at Texas State, Jones is a valuable utility lineman who can step in at multiple spots in an emergency.
• Experience Level: His extensive playing time across multiple systems (including protecting a high-profile quarterback like Cam Ward) gives him a high football IQ and readiness for the pro game.

Areas for Development: Refining Technique

• Footwork Consistency: While he has the raw foot speed, there are moments where his footwork can become inconsistent, especially when facing speed rushers on the edge (when playing tackle). The transition to full-time guard will help mitigate this.
• Hand Placement: Like many college prospects, Jones needs refinement in his hand placement to consistently lock out defenders and prevent holding penalties. This is a common focus area during NFL rookie minicamp and training camp.
• Pad Level: Due to his size, maintaining a low pad level can be a challenge, which can sometimes diminish his leverage against smaller, quicker defensive tackles.

The Road Ahead: Making the Los Angeles Chargers Roster

For Nash Jones, the "NFL Draft" narrative is over; the focus is now solely on the "NFL Roster." His path to making the Los Angeles Chargers’ 53-man roster is competitive but entirely achievable, especially given the team's need to rebuild its offensive line depth.

Jones will be competing primarily for a backup interior offensive line spot, likely at guard. His main competition will come from other depth linemen and possibly other UDFAs signed by the Chargers. The $15,000 guaranteed money gives him an edge over many other camp invitees, signaling he is on the shortlist of players the coaching staff wants to develop.

The transition from Offensive Tackle to full-time Offensive Guard is a key factor. If Jones can demonstrate quick adaptation and consistent technique improvement under the Chargers’ coaching staff, his power and size make him an ideal candidate for a backup role. The goal is to survive the final cuts and secure a spot, which would validate the Chargers' decision to make him a priority signing over several drafted players. Ultimately, Nash Jones’s journey is a compelling case study in how raw talent, when paired with a strong collegiate resume and a clear NFL fit, can overcome the hurdle of going undrafted.