Markus Jones
DE/OLB
Angelo State
Alex Khvatov: Tell us about your overall experience at the 2019 East/West Shrine Game.
Markus Jones: This is what everyone dreams of. You want to compete and challenge yourself against the best players in the nation. Everyone is on the same level, with a same mindset. Give credit to Don Hansen. He gave me this opportunity. I was able to win the Gene Upshaw award. It is a great opportunity to be here.
Alex Khvatov: What do you want to show scouts this week?
Markus Jones: I am the same, if not a lot better than all of these other DE’s and O-linemen here. I can become an NFL player.
Alex Khvatov: How did you wind up at Angelo State?
Markus Jones: In high school, I played DE/OLB my senior year. I weighed about 200 pounds. I guess that many teams don’t want a 200-pound DE in college. Over a period of time, I got bigger and better. I was an All-Conference player at D-II. I worked my way up. I showed that I am a somebody.
Alex Khvatov: What is the highlight of you career up to this point?
Markus Jones: Sophomore year, I blocked seven FG kicks. I had back-to-back All-American years. I had 17.5 sacks and 36.5 TFL’s during my senior year. I broke the career sack record at the school.
Alex Khvatov: What are your strengths?
Markus Jones: My first step when I am pass rushing. I can cause a turnover or get a sack at a critical moment. I am coachable.
Alex Khvatov: What areas of your game are you trying to improve upon?
Markus Jones: Get better against the run and get more stops.
Alex Khvatov: You can play DE in a 4-3 or OLB in a 3-4. Comment on your versatility.
Markus Jones: Playing DE, you are in the trenches all the time. Your first step is important, and your steps are dictated by the OL. It is more technical. Playing linebacker, you are reading more. You are observing the field. I love DE. I have been playing it since I have been four years old.
Alex Khvatov: What one word best describes you?
Markus Jones: Competitive.
