I think we can all agree that professional sports are a better place with more orange sprinkled in them. In its over a century-long history, Syracuse football has had over 250 players reach the pro level. Last night, that number grew by one, as a former captain of the program has found a home in the NFL.
Linebacker Mikel Jones has officially been signed by the Tennessee Titans. Jones declared for the NFL Draft in 2023 but fell undrafted. He bounced around between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squads before taking on a role with the DC Defenders of the United Football League (UFL.) This will be Jones’ first opportunity at the professional level on a 53-man roster.
Despite his struggles in the show, Jones was extremely successful during his time in the 315. The 5-foot-11, 226-pound linebacker was named team captain during his senior season and led by example in the front seven. The Miami, Florida native racked up 301 career tackles, 24 tackles for a loss, over nine and a half sacks, four interceptions, and four forced fumbles/recoveries in four seasons at Syracuse. Jones earned All-ACC honors at the linebacker position three times in his collegiate career and was a finalist for the Butkus Award.
In a perfect world, Jones finding a home in the NFL paves the way for future Orange stars in the league. This is especially interesting with fellow linebacker Marlowe Wax Jr. expected to declare for the draft this spring. He could be joined by some other names, including all-ACC tight end Oronde Gadsden II and gunslinger Kyle McCord. Pipeline? More like a pipedream. But hey, anything could happen with a new culture under Fran Brown.
