Jones returns to Junction City to guide Dragons’ defense

Byran Jones ranks as one of the most decorated players in Junction City's storied history. Now he is in charge of running the Dragons' defense.

Jones was tabbed by first-year coach Devin Ball during the spring to be Junction City's defensive coordinator, and the Dragons have wasted no time in getting adjusted to how he wants the defense to be run.

Up front, the Dragons have a trio working at defensive end.

Junior Jamarion Toles is expected to cause plenty of disruption.

“Jamarion Toles is an edge setter,” Jones said. “He can play the run, get after the passer. I expect a great year from this kid.”

Jordan Banks, a fellow junior, could also move to linebacker if needed.

“He has a relentless motor, work ethic and skill set,” Jones said. “I love his length at the field end position. He will play some linebacker as well.”

Sophomore Dalton Baker could also see playing time at several spots.

“He will also contribute at end with versatility for linebacker as well,” Jones said.

At defensive tackle, Junction City has a sophomore and a senior who could make a major impact.

Jones played at Arkansas, and he believes sophomore Jermaine Singleton could develop into a player SEC schools will keep an eye on.

“He is a young guy that's going be an SEC-caliber defensive tackle,” Jones said. “I'm excited to see him transform from a kid to a young man up front.”

Ja'Veion Davis, a senior, brings great versatility.

“He is the double-edged sword,” Jones said. “He will play all four positions on the defense. I'm excited about his leadership and upside for big plays.”

Junior Tony Hodges is slated to play nose guard.

“He's going to make sure the young guys are lined up in the right spot up front,” Jones said.

Jones added that the front line will be tested right out of the gate in Week 0 when the Dragons travel to Harmony Grove.

“This is a hard-nosed group that's going to prove their identity Week 0,” Jones said. “They have shown a balanced identity with success against the run and pass. I look for them to seal games for this team.”

At linebacker, senior Hayden Hudson leads a trio that will need to set the tone for the Dragons.

“We call him the hammer for a reason,” Jones said. “He is our leader.”

Sophomore Brady Penister is set to make an immediate impact as an underclassman.

“He is a blue-collar young guy that's going to be great at our Sam-backer position,” Jones said. “He clocks in first, clocks out last. He earned his stripes all summer as a player and teammate.”

Junior Jaxson Thurmon can play in a variety of spots.

“He is a hard-nosed hybrid backer who also serves as a safety for our defense,” Jones said. “He's fearless. I expect a tone set by him each game with his physicality.”

Jones has high expectations for his linebackers.

“These guys are going be the leaders of the defense,” Jones said. “They must know everyone's alignment and assignment, then execute from sideline to

sideline each play. They are the hardest workers we have.”

The secondary is sophomore-laden and has some depth at cornerback.

Sophomores Dakorey and Jakorey Larry are in the mix.

“They both pace the boundary cornerback spots,” Jones said.

Jaxxon Caldwell, also a sophomore, is set to slot in at one of the cornerback spots.

“He has emerged as our starter into the field,” Jones said. “He has toughness and we like that aspect against opposing wide receivers.”

Another sophomore, Ja'Kameron Flowers, is another candidate.

“He has shown the ability to run tough at cornerback,” Jones said.

Senior Dovonte' Grimes is slated to get the nod at free safety.

“He's going be the captain over the back end of the defense,” Jones said. “He has big-play ability.

“He has closed space as well as anyone all summer in camps. He will take the ball out of the sky.”

Junior Taylen Owens can play both at free safety and at cornerback.

“He has been taking backup work as well with a high football IQ and growth with the football mechanics,” Jones said.

At strong safety, the Dragons have another sophomore in Brennan Lee.

“A young guy that Dovonte Grimes has taken under his wing and shown him the ropes on defense,” Jones said. “His length will serve him well at this position. He will start for us and grow weekly.”

Jones said the secondary must focus on not giving up big plays.

“These guys are going to play to the last second,” Jones said. “They're going to focus on not giving up the big play and keep everything in front of them. Let the first two levels work the opposing team into us getting the football back.”

When asked about keys to success, Jones said there were three.

“Get lined up (communication), win on first down and have 11 hats to the ball on every play,” Jones said.