Julio Jones: Player of the Year

Foley High School's Julio Jones named the 2007-08 Gatorade Alabama Football Player of the Year.

The award, which recognizes outstanding athletic excellence and academic achievement, distinguishes Jones as Alabama’s best high school football player. Jones is now a finalist for the Gatorade National Football Player of the Year award to be announced in mid-December.

The 6'4", 218 lbs. senior wide receiver caught 68 passes for 1,179 yards and 16 touchdowns. He also helped Foley HS reach the Class 6A quarterfinals.

“Put it this way, I coached Terrell Owens when he was in high school, but right now, Jones is better than TO was at that age,” said rival Fairhope High Head Coach Mark Lasseter. “I’m not saying he’ll turn into that player, but he’s one of the best football players I’ve ever seen and I’m glad he’s graduating. His leaping ability is incredible—all the great ones have great speed and hands, but not all can jump. And few can jump like he can. I’ve seen him outleap three defenders to catch the football. And he’s a great kid on top of it all.”

Jones, who also won the Gatorade Alabama Boys Track & Field Athlete of the Year in 2006-07, has not decided where he will play college ball.

Jones is the second from our area to win the Gatorade Alabama Football Players of the Year. Phelon Jones of McGill-Toolen won in 2006-07.