The Doug Marrone era started on a high note two months ago when Art Jones announced he would return for his senior season instead of declaring for the NFL Draft. But Syracuse will be without its star defensive tackle, at least for a little while.

Jones sustained a torn left pectoral muscle while lifting weights Monday and will have surgery next week, according to a press release by SU Athletics. A magnetic resonance imaging test confirmed the tear. According to the release, ‘Future information regarding Arthur’s recovery and activity level will be released as progress warrants.’

Through the Orange’s disappointing 3-9 season last fall, Jones was a bright spot. The junior finished with 60 tackles, including 13 for loss and was named first-team all-Big East. As a sophomore, Jones made 17.5 stops for loss – good for third best on Syracuse’s single-season. Jones ranks sixth in program history in tackles for loss (31.5). Scouts and agents told Jones he projected as a second-round pick in the NFL Draft, according to a story that ran in The Daily Orange Dec. 23

Rather than declare and go pro a year early, Jones opted to stay in school after talking to Marrone.

‘The NFL isn’t going anywhere,’ Jones said in December. ‘This gives me a chance to get my degree.’

Now, his future is uncertain. The pectoral is a muscle in the front of the chest that helps with arm and shoulder movement. Historically, football players on the pro level have had their seasons end to pectoral tears, including defensive linemen Michael Strahan, Trevor Pryce and Bertrand Berry. But there is no evidence at this time that Jones’ injury is that serious.

Losing Jones would be a devastating blow to SU’s defense, which finished 101st last season in the nation. Jones’ best outing came in Syracuse’s 24-23 upset of Notre Dame, when he totaled a career-high 15 tackles, including four behind the line of the scrimmage. The game netted Jones Big East defensive player of the week honors.

thdunne@syr.edu

Published on February 24, 2009 at 12:00 pm