Five Tiger gridders anticipating “Signing Day”

The prospect of a large contingent of people descending on Jonesboro-Hodge High School this coming Wednesday, February 1st looks promising. The reason is that is National Signing Day. That is the day when high school football players from all over the nation make an official commitment to the college of their choice.

The way things look following the recruiting visits that were held over the weekend, up to five Tigers could be inking their signatures. Expected to sign the dotted line at various universities and colleges are Devontae Mozee, Tydre Malone, Justin Calahan, Javeon Andrews and Jamarriyea Lewis. It would be the largest contingent of JHHS football players from one class to ever sign collegiate scholarships.

Maybe it could be traced to the advantages of today’s technology that allows college coaches to view videos of players through social media. In today’s world there is no longer such thing as a “diamond in the rough.” If you can play a college will find you. JHHS had several “players” this year.

The number of prospective signees is incredible. You don’t see that many players signing from one class virtually anywhere regardless of classification or location but especially not from a small rural school in North Louisiana. The last time that JHHS had anything close to the number of possible signees from one class was way back in the mid 1960’s when four inked their name to play at different colleges.

Certainly, it is a testament to the dedicated work put in by the group who overcame incredible tragedy before the season began to lead the Tigers to the Class AA state semifinals. It is also a testament to the JHHS coaching staff, faculty and administration that worked diligently to help prepare them for the future.

Here is a look at the prospects and where they are expected to sign

Devontae Mozee – University of Missouri
mozee1 The Class AA All-State first team defensive back has received several other offers from smaller schools such as Phenix City College, Langston University, Louisiana Christian (formerly Louisiana College) and Grambling State. When MIZZOU (University of Missouri) of the SEC came calling this past Thursday, Mozee was on a jet headed to the campus on Friday.

Tydre Malone – undecided
tydre-3 The all-time school record holder of virtually every passing category and twice, post-season All-Star Game participant, has received offers from Georgia Christian College, Northshore Prep College, HH Post Graduate Academy, Jefferson Post Graduate Academy, Lane College, Phenix City College and Goode Elite Prep Academy.

Javeon Andrews – East Texas Baptist University
The first team 1-2A All District Defensive End who had a strong showing at the Louisiana Gridiron All Star Game took an official visit to East Texas this past weekend and per tweets posted seemingly will be heading back. Also has received offers from HH Post Graduate Academy, Culver-Stockton College, Phenix City College

Jamarriyea Lewis – undecided
“Big Play” Jay was unquestionably the “unsung” hero of the Tigers season. The first team 1-2A All District performer always seemed to be the one who made the play when it was desperately needed. Talented receiver and defensive back who got better every game he played and has his best days in front of him. Has received offers from HH Post Graduate Academy, Northshore Prep College

Justin Calahan – Kilgore College
Versatile athlete who excelled wherever he was on the field. Played receiver, defensive back, returned kicks and punts and even played quarterback at times. Took official visit to Kilgore this past weekend and according to tweets seemed to have found a home. Also has offer from Lane College.