Not every big dream pans out. You can rack up amazing numbers in college, but that means nothing if you can’t follow through in the NFL. And the scrutiny comes hard, especially when you’re a first-round pick. However, even if you can’t make it big on the gridiron, there are always second chances. That’s the reality for an ex-NFL linebacker who was once coined the worst decision for Mike Tomlin’s Steelers.
When Jarvis Jones came into the 2013 NFL draft, he checked all the boxes for a linebacker. But all the hype quickly died down as the Georgia standout couldn’t measure up to the big league players. So, after a 4-year stint with the Steelers, he bid the NFL goodbye and went back to his former hunting grounds – the University of Georgia. But after making his mark there again, it seems like another career shift was in order.
Jarvis Jones joins Carver High School as their newest football head coach. Jones had carved his name as a star at Carver when he was just a young linebacker with big dreams. In a full-circle moment, he now aims to bring the very best out of his alma-mater’s football program. As the school made the announcement, Jones walked onto the stage with his family in tow and gave an inspiring speech. “It definitely means a whole lot to us – Y’all know I love Carver to death. – Man, it’s a dream come true to me. I want to thank every last one of y’all for being here today. I know y’all will be a great support.” But it’s not all fun and games for Jones. He’s on a mission.
Former Georgia All-American LB Jarvis Jones has been hired as the head coach at Carver (Ga.) High, his alma mater.
(per @scoreatlanta)
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Jarvis Jones aims to help the players go to college and “become responsible men with families.” Speaking to the student athletes, he said, “It’s gonna be hard work – It’s gonna be dedication. We’re gonna get it done, man. We’re gonna find ways to get it done.”
While Jones stressed it’s going to be hard work for sure, he’s also excited to be with them through their journey. “I had a great supporting cast when I was here in Columbus and throughout my career – Y’all always supported me, and I’m just so, so, so, so excited to give it all back to y’all.” But as Jones looks forward to building a new legacy for his high-school, fans are also wondering what Kirby Smart is going to do. Especially as he looks to replace Jones now.
Smart’s dilemma after Jarvis Jones’ departure
Georgia doesn’t seem able to make their support staff stay. While Jarvis Jones looks forward to giving back to his high school, Bulldogs HC Kirby Smart faces a tough decision. He now has to fill the gap created by Jones, and it certainly won’t be easy. Jones has been a key piece in building the defensive plays for the Bulldogs. With him gone, fans are wondering who’s going to step up next. Especially as Smart gears up for a 16-team playoff dynamic.
July 31st, 2016: Jarvis Jones 95 during the Pittsburgh Steelers training camp in Latrobe, PA. /CSM NFL American Football Herren USA 2016: Steelers Training Camp JUL 31 – ZUMAcp5_
But Kirby Smart’s not worried about the format. As he had notably said, “I actually think that it’s a great thing when you win a 16-team SEC conference, and it’s probably one of the best years we’ve had in terms of winning games. – I love the expectation. I embrace that; I think that’s a good thing because if it’s not there, then what are you playing for, you know?” So, the drive to win is clearly still strong in the HC’s mind. All he’s got to do is fill the Jones’ shoes, and go all-in with his players again.
With Kirby Smart looking ahead and planning the next move for the Bulldogs, fans are left wondering, what’s Smart going to do now? And while he figures out the kinks, Jarvis Jones’ exciting new adventure begins in earnest.
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