Jones inks with MidAmerican Nazarene University

D.J. Jones may be small in stature, but he’s been Patterson’s big-play threat for the last two seasons.
Thursday, Jones signed a national letter of intent to play college football at MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas.
“I’m really proud to see D.J. sign his college scholarship today,” Patterson assistant coach C.L. Grogan said. “The kid has worked hard his whole career here. He’s excelled in athletics and in the classroom, so this kid deserves every blessing coming his way.”
Jones was an all-district performer the last two seasons, but he’s one of the last seniors to sign with a college.
“I told him that it would take a while because everyone looks at size, but MNU is getting an outstanding football player and a better kid,” Grogan said. “He’s going to bring dynamic and explosive plays to the team. This kid can play running back or receiver, and he’s so dangerous in the kicking game.”
During his senior season, Jones rushed 68 times for 696 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also caught 28 passes for 437 yards and five touchdowns.
Jones was named first-team All-District 8-3A as a senior at running back and defensive back and a second-team selection at return specialist.
He was an honorable mention Class 3A All-State selection by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association.
The Pioneers coaches ultimately saw something they could never teach — speed.
“The first thing they said to me was that I can fly,” Jones said. “They said they wanted me to come in and do the same things I did here at Patterson. But I’m also going to give them 100 percent effort on every play. I wouldn’t take any plays off. I am very happy for this opportunity. Everybody (doesn’t) get a chance to play college football.”
Jones was joined by a large group of family and friends for his signing ceremony, but he’s looking forward to moving to Kansas.
“Of course I’m going to miss my family and friends, but most people encouraged me to get away and experience new things,” he said. “I know that this will change me, so I just want to grow and maybe I can bring what I learn back to Patterson in the future.”
Patterson finished its football season with a 9-3 mark and a District 8-3A title with a 6-0 mark. The Lumberjacks fell to West Feliciana in the regional round of the Class 3A playoffs.
Jones was also a key contributor on Patterson’s basketball team for four years. His class went 38-2 in district play and won four consecutive district championships. Jones was an honorable mention all-district selection this season.