Chris Jones is a five-star defensive end recruit from Houston, Miss., and he intends to remain in his home state to play college ball. As you know, the state of Mississippi has two very large football programs in Mississippi State and Ole Miss. Fans of both SEC schools take their college ball very seriously, which has made Jones’ decision process quite difficult. Based on what he says, it has also been frightening.
“It was a crazy weekend,” Jones told ESPN.com, via Dr. Saturday. “I received death threats, insane messages, you name it. I mean it has not been as stressful as people would think it has been. I have tried to handle it in the most comfortable way possible, so it has really been alright for me, and in the end, I am very blessed to have this opportunity to play for either in-state school.”
According to Scout.com, Jones is ranked No. 2 in the nation at his position. You can understand why fans want him to commit to the school they root for, but the fact that someone would send a death threat to a high school kid over it is disturbing. Signing day is Wednesday, and Jones said he has made up his mind but he is not ready to reveal his decision yet for obvious reasons.
“I think I have my mind made up,” he said. “I am excited about the people I will be surrounded with at that program. I have not told my parents, and I am not going to worry about making them or anyone unhappy. I am ready to make the best decision for me. Some people’s feelings might get hurt, but sometimes you cannot make everyone happy. A couple people might get angry on Facebook and Twitter, too, but that is life. I will announce my decision on signing day, and I do not plan to tell either school before then.”
Jones gave each school one final look this past weekend, and it sounds like his parents would prefer him to attend Ole Miss. While it’s ultimately his decision, it’s always good to listen to the advice of your parents. It’s also good to ignore the psychopaths who feel the need to threaten an 18-year-old about his decision on where he should further his education and career.
