by Collin Kelly ‘17 and Carter Spearry ‘16
On January 3, Dre’Mont Jones ‘15 became the first Ignatian ever to play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl played at the Alamodome in San Antonio, TX. The game, held annually since 2001, is a showcase of ninety of the best high school senior football players in the country and has featured many future NFL and college football stars such as Andrew Luck, Demarco Murray and Ndamukong Suh.
Dre’Mont, who was also invited to play in the Under Armour All-American Game, helped the West prevail 39-36 over the East. Dre’Mont and his West defensive teammates played a strong game allowing 57 net rushing yards. “He was really underrated by a lot of people. He’s one of the best defensive ends here at this game,” Athletic Director Rory Fitzpatrick said of Jones.
Dre’Mont’s biggest play of the game came when he deflected a pass into the air and West linebacker Ben Humphreys intercepted it and returned it 21 yards for a touchdown.
Jones commented on playing on such a huge stage saying, “I think playing on that stage was crazy, it was the biggest crowd I ever played in front of. I was nervous but excited the entire game. Throughout the game, sometimes it felt like I was in college.”
“He certainly showed that he’s one of the best in the county,” remarked Head Varsity Football Coach Chuck Kyle.
Dre’Mont has had the attention of colleges for multiple years with his athletic 6’4” 250 pound frame. On 247Sports.com, he received a 9/10 for his athleticism and pursuit and an 8/10 for his hand quickness and first step. The U.S. Army All American Bowl official website describes Dre’Mont as having “the frame and athletic ability to be a scheme-versatile defensive lineman.”
“With how hard he works and with how big, strong and athletic he is, I think he’s got a great career ahead of him,” commented Mr. Fitzpatrick.
Ranked as the 17th defensive end in the country and the 5th overall prospect in Ohio by ESPN, Dre’Mont received scholarship offers from nine schools including Florida State, Ohio State, Michigan and Notre Dame. In spite of all that, Dre’Mont elected to stay in Ohio and verbally committed to Ohio State on June 18, 2014.
After the Buckeyes’ win over Oregon in the National Championship, Dre’Mont couldn’t have been happier. And according to him, it’s only going to get better. “My thoughts on the future are overwhelmingly bright because of the players coming and staying and the staff there. We easily have a shot at the National Championship game again next year, plus I get to play with Kyle Berger ‘14 again.”
