Grambling transfer linebacker Andrew Jones has made waves in the college football world by flipping his commitment to Ole Miss, as reported by On3’s Hayes Fawcett. Previously, he had pledged his future to South Carolina, but the allure of the Rebels proved too strong to resist.
Andrew Jones: A Rising Star
Jones is not just any player; he was recognized as an FCS All-American in 2024 and earned the title of co-Defensive Player of the Year in the SWAC. With one year of eligibility remaining, he’s looking to make a significant impact on his new team.
In a standout season, Jones accumulated impressive statistics: 122 tackles, 20.5 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks. To put that in perspective, his 122 tackles were a staggering 73 more than anyone else on the Grambling State team. This kind of performance doesn’t just happen; it’s a testament to his hard work and dedication on the field.
A Breakout Year at Grambling State
Jones had a remarkable turnaround after a limited role the previous year, where he only appeared in two games. His journey began at the Memphis Tigers, where he signed as a three-star recruit in the class of 2021, according to the On3 Industry Rankings. After redshirting his first year, he made his presence known in 2022 by playing in 10 games, finishing that season with four tackles, one tackle for loss, and a forced fumble.
His evolution into a dominant force was evident during his time at Grambling State, where he truly came into his own. With his impressive stats and accolades, it’s clear that Jones is ready to take the next step in his football career with Ole Miss.
Ole Miss Welcomes New Talent
In addition to Andrew Jones, Ole Miss has also secured another valuable addition to their roster. Former LSU transfer safety Sage Ryan has committed to the Rebels, bringing with him a wealth of experience and talent. Ryan recorded 111 total tackles and defended 12 passes during his time with the Tigers, and he too has one year of eligibility remaining.
Ryan is a redshirt junior who has demonstrated versatility throughout his career, playing multiple positions and contributing significantly in various games. His most productive season came in 2024, where he tallied 42 tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, a sack, three forced fumbles, an interception, and six passes defended. This kind of performance will surely bolster the Rebels’ defense.
Thankful for the Journey
As Ryan transitions to Ole Miss, he took a moment to express his gratitude towards the LSU coaching staff. “I would also like to thank the LSU Coaching Staff for allowing a homegrown student-athlete to chase his goals and dreams,” he wrote. His heartfelt message extended to his teammates as well, emphasizing the bonds formed over the past three seasons. “I appreciate you guys for pushing me to the max and making me better every day,” he added.
This kind of camaraderie is crucial in college football, where teamwork and support can make all the difference on and off the field.
Looking Ahead: The Gator Bowl
As the Rebels gear up for the upcoming season, they have an exciting challenge ahead. Ole Miss will face off against the Duke Blue Devils on Thursday, January 2nd, in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl. This matchup will be nationally televised on ESPN, providing a grand stage for both teams to showcase their skills.
With new talent like Andrew Jones and Sage Ryan joining the ranks, the Rebels are poised to make a significant impact in the bowl game and beyond. Fans are undoubtedly eager to see how these players will contribute to the team’s success and what they can achieve together.
The Future Looks Bright for Ole Miss
The addition of Jones and Ryan highlights Ole Miss’s commitment to building a competitive team. With their impressive backgrounds and proven abilities, both players are expected to elevate the performance of the Rebels.
As college football continues to evolve, the importance of strategic recruitment and player development cannot be overstated. Ole Miss is making strides in both areas, and the excitement surrounding the program is palpable.
In a sport where every game counts, having players like Andrew Jones and Sage Ryan on the roster could be the key to unlocking new levels of success for the Rebels. Fans are left wondering: how far can this team go with such promising talent? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—college football is about to get even more thrilling!
