Cross said 21-year-old Jones, heading into his fifth year at Whitten Oval, needs to provide the firepower in attack to take the Bulldogs forward this season.
"In our match simulation he's really dominating our backs at times," Cross told Crocmedia's Sportsday.
"He doesn't win the time trials, but he's such a powerful speed freak. He loves a contest, he's great overhead.
"Without putting a lot of pressure on him, he's really one we need to step up and go to that next level."
Cross said big man Ayce Cordy needed to join Jones in his development.
"Another one is Ayce Cordy who's in a similar boat, he's been in the system four to five years.
"In certain times in your career there's a time when the team needs you."
Liam Jones is a forward in NAB AFL Fantasy. He averaged 44 points in 2012. Register your team at our AFL Fantasy Hub.
