Aquinas grad and NFL hopeful Jamir Jones is getting set for the next chapter of his football career. But all the pre-draft workouts are happening earlier than expected as the Notre Dame grad had planned to redshirt his senior season.

“It was originally a thing for me to just maximize on my potential and my career there. Get that extra year to play the whole season, but when a guy went down they needed me so I stepped up,” said Jones.

Jones took advantage of the increased playing time at defensive end, recording 26 tackles and 4.5 sacks last season.

“That's something that I love to do, get in there and bang. I was eager to prove myself at first but I soon realized that it's less about that and it's more about technique, your get-off and working moves and having a plan,” said Jones.

Jones hopes his play caught the eyes of NFL scouts.

“I feel like at outside linebacker where you primarily get to rush the passer and also drop in coverage and show off your ability to play in space is a perfect position for someone like myself,” said Jones.

Jones is leaning on the advice of older brother Jarron, who also played at Notre Dame and has logged some NFL time: with the Bills last summer, and signing a contract with the Steelers last week.

"I talk to him a lot about what to expect, what teams want to see, the whole agent deal and stuff like that,” said Jones.

Drafted or undrafted, Jones is prepared for what's ahead.

“I also realize it's just the beginning. You still have to go in and prove yourself each and every day. I just want to go to a team where I'm wanted. A team where I'm needed,” said Jones.

Jones and several other Section V alums will take part in a pro day this weekend.