TEXARKANA, Texas -- Just as some engines need gas to be powered, Liberty-Eylau's defense was greatly fueled by linebacker W.T. Jones, who was named one of the Texarkana Gazette Standout Athletes of the Year on the All-City team.
Jones also played a pivotal role at H-back for the Leopards. On the defensive side, he had 116 tackles, four sacks, caused three fumbles and had an interception. Offensively, Jones caught 22 passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns.
The Liberty-Eylau standout was a main catalyst in helping the Leopards reach the football playoffs as the No. 4 seed out of District 7-4A, Division II. L-E fell in the first round to (then No. 1 ranked in Texas and defending state champion) Carthage.
Jones was a first-team offense All-District selection at H-back and a first-team defense All-District choice at linebacker for 2023. He also was an all-district player at the same positions last season, which is a sign of his work ethic and talent.
He is highly competitive and places winning above any personal goals that he may have for himself. Jones brings high energy and excels at rallying up his teammates.
The Leopards' star athlete is also a highly skilled baseball player. After baseball season, Jones hit the weight room in order to get strong and faster for football season.
He always arrived 30 minutes early to morning football practice, which started at 7 a.m. Jones put in the time to bond with his teammates in going out to eat or just joking around with them. The flame of his team mentality is constantly brightly burning and never dims.
Jones, other than football and baseball, enjoys playing golf, pitching and hanging out with his friends. His long-term goal is to play sports at the college level.