Meet DJ Jones, Kennett’s new starting varsity QB

KENNETT – Some may remember seeing a young freshman quarterback step up in Kennett’s varsity MSHSAA Class 3 District 1 Quarterfinal game against Potosi last season.

If you need reminding, that was Tyquavious (DJ) Jones who embraced the challenge after the team’s starting QB and now-graduate Tanner Pierce was injured late in the season. Along with a ruthless running game, Jones helped lead the Indians to a hard-fought 26-19 win that night in the midst of a slough of late season injuries across the roster.

Starting August 25 at home against Hayti, the now 15 year old sophomore will be the go-to guy this season.

“We’re trying to come out and prove everybody wrong,” Jones said. “We can’t doubt ourselves and get down. We have to keep going, because we have a long way and there are a lot of young people. We don’t have that many leaders anymore, so we have to help each other and keep going.”

As just one member of Kennett’s remarkably young roster this year, he will take the lead in pushing the program towards potentially setting a new school record. Currently, the Indians sit at eight-straight winning seasons, tied for the most in school history.

Last year, the team started the season with five consecutive wins. Jones said his goal, overall, is to match that this season. As far as way-too-early predictions go, he’s confident that those stepping up alongside a limited group of returners have what it takes to break the record.

“It was way different – much different than stepping up to varsity,” Jones said of his time playing on the JV squad. “There was a whole bunch of running the ball, and now up here you’re passing a lot more. It’s way better because the receivers, just everyone is better.”

Jones meekly said that he has a pretty good passing game “for only being 15,” and among other traits, head coach Andrew Webster is inclined to agree.

“He throws a good ball,” Webster said. “He’s smart and he’s respectful. You know, he’s 15, so he has a lot to learn, but I think we’re going to be in a good spot with him. He works really hard and I’m really excited to see what he can do.”

Having only seen what he can do under the Friday night lights twice, but witnessing his work ethic in the weight room and on the practice field plenty this summer, Webster is already seeing glimpses of Jones’ potential.

“He’s good at something I’m not the best at,” Webster said. “He’s pretty even-keeled. He’s not too high, not too low, which is a good thing for a quarterback to not get rattled and just play the game. I’m really proud of his development so far. We just have to keep heading in the right direction.”

At backup and starting junior varsity quarterback this year is Will Leeker, who Webster said also has a bright future ahead.

Kennett JV quarterback Will Leeker makes a pass during practice on Tuesday, July 11, 2023.Christian Johnson, Delta Dunklin Democrat

Kennett’s season opens Friday, August 25 at home against Hayti before taking on Doniphan on the road the following week.