Missouri: Interview with O’Hara High School Class of 2017 Cornerback Peyton Jones

Written by Charlie Beuttel

Twitter: @charlie_cds3

Archbishop O’Hara High School in Kansas City had a great season in 2015 as the Celtics went 7-4 and reached the second round of the playoffs before losing 41-7 to Odessa. During the season, O’Hara’s offense scored 31.5 points while their defense just gave up 22 points a game. One reason for their great success was the play of junior cornerback and running back Peyton Jones.

Jones had a tremendous junior campaign in 2015 as he had 904 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns on offense and 45 total tackles, six fumble recoveries and four interceptions on the defensive side of the ball. After the season, the 6’0”, 185 pound, playmaker won several individual honors at both positions.

The Class of 2017 recruit is currently receiving interest from several schools including Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Navy and has several college visits lined up.

On the field, Jones runs the 40 yard dash in 4.57 seconds. He also works hard in the classroom where he has a 3.0 GPA and plans on studying sports marketing in college.

In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru, I sat down with Peyton to talk about his career at O’Hara and his recruiting process.

Interview

What are your thoughts on the 2015 season?

“It was pretty entertaining. I played more and more each game and got more comfortable as the weeks went on.”

What are your thoughts on your individual performance in your junior season?

“I think I played pretty good. On defense, opponents stayed away from me and that was a little boring.”

What are your strengths on the football field?

“Just knowing the game of football. I’ve been around it since I was 4-years-old. I practice my technique. I know what’s going on the field. I have an eye for the ball.”

Did you receive any individual honors last year?

“First team All-Conference and first team All-District at defensive back and then first team All-District at running back.”

What was your most memorable moment?

“When we faced our rival, St. Pius X, I had three touchdowns in the game. We blew them out 38-3.”

What schools are currently showing you interest?

“Kansas, Kansas State, Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas, Iowa State, Purdue and Navy.”

Do you currently have any offers?

“No sir, not at this time.”

Will you attend any camps this summer?

“Nike Opening in Dallas, Rivals camp, and I have some college camps in mind.”

Do you have college visits lined up?

“Iowa State on Feb. 20 and Missouri on Feb. 27.”

What is your favorite thing about playing football?

“Going out there and playing against the opponent next to me. May the best man win.”

What do you like playing more cornerback or running back?

“Cornerback by a long shot. It’s more fun to me. I’m more comfortable. I believe in my technique. I get to man up against my opponent.”

Who has had the biggest impact on your football career?

“My dad, Paul Jones, who has coached me since I was little. He taught me everything I know. He points out the little things to me when we watch football together.”

What is your current GPA?

“3.0.”

What do you plan on studying in college?

“Sports Marketing.”

How does your team look going into next season?

“It’s still a little early but I’m sure we will be successful.”

Do you have any goals going into your senior season?

“Just win and work hard.”

What is your fastest 40 yard dash time?

“4.57.”

Do you have a current college or NFL player that you try to model your game after?

“Tyrann Mathieu of the Arizona Cardinals.”

Thank you for your time and good luck in your senior season.

“Thank you sir.”

Photo credit: 247sports.com; Archbishop O’Hara CB Peyton Jones

Photo credit: twitter.com; Peyton Jones at U.S. Army Combine

Photo credit: hudl.com; O’Hara vs. Oak Grove.