Louisiana: Interview with Evangel Christian Academy Class of 2017 WR Johnathan Jones

Written by Charlie Beuttel 

Evangel Christian Academy in Shreveport, Louisiana is off to great start in 2015 as the Eagles have won five straight games after dropping their opening game to St. Joseph Prep (PA), 14-0. Evangel has a reputation of producing great football players including former NFL players John David Booty and Jacob Hester along with current NFL player Keyunta Dawson and current Louisiana Tech wide receiver Trent Taylor.

Another rising star currently on the Eagles roster is junior wide receiver Johnathan Jones. Jones is one of the weapons in this offense helping the average 37.3 points a game. Jones has caught 5 passes for 96 yards with one touchdown so far in 2015.

The 6’2″, 185 pound, junior is rated as a three-star prospect according 247sports.com and has already received a scholarship offer from Louisiana Tech. Jones has taken college visits to Louisiana Tech and TCU and is getting a lot of interest from big time schools including Arkansas, TCU, and Notre Dame.

In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I sat down with Johnathan to talk about his career at Evangel and his recruiting process.

Interview
First off, Johnathan, Evangel is off to a 5-1 start, what do you think are the keys to your team’s early success?

“I feel like we have come together as a team. Knowing that the guy besides you can do their job.”

What are your thoughts on your individual performance?

“I think I could do a lot better and I’m taking advantage of the opportunities that I’ve been given.”

What would you say are your strengths on the football field?

“Getting off the line, deep and quick routes.”

Evangel beat Parkway and Southwood in your first two district games. How does your team look going into the rest of district play?

“I feel like we look really good. We came in as underdogs because we were projected to finish fifth in 1-5A.”

What games left on the schedule are you most looking forward to playing?

“Definitely the Byrd and Airline games.”

Evangel hasn’t lost a home district game since 1990, does that add any extra pressure on you?

“No not at all. It’s like the home field advantage it gives us a good atmosphere and good energy.”

What did you work on the most to prepare for your junior season?

“A lot of quick routes, being more patience, and getting my 40 speed up.”

What college camps did you attend this past summer?

“Northwestern State, Louisiana Tech, and Louisiana-Lafayette.”

Do you have any interest from any schools?

“TCU, Arkansas, LSU, Louisiana Tech, and Notre Dame.”

Have you gone on any visits?

“Louisiana Tech and TCU, and I plan on making another visit to TCU.”

What do you like about TCU?

“The atmosphere and knowing they have a lot of pride in their football team.”

What kind of feedback have you received about your football skills?

“They love how I go up and they know I will come down with it.”

What is your fastest 40 yard dash time?

“4.51 the day before the Louisiana Tech camp.”

What is your current GPA?

“2.4.”

What do you want to study in college?

“Kinesiology.”

Who has had the biggest impact on your football career?

“Head Coach Dawson and Pastor Denny, they’ve made me who I am today.”

Photo credit: scout.com: Evangel WR Johnathan Jones