From high school standout to Super Bowl champion: the rise of Ernest Jones
In short: Before he was a cornerstone of the Seattle Seahawks defense, Ernest Jones was a Georgia high school star. His journey through the NFL has been defined by rapid ascension, high-stakes trades, and an incredible ability to command the middle of the field.
Ernest Jones IV's path to professional football began in Waycross, Georgia, where he played for Ware County High School. As a senior, he established himself as a premier talent, recording 1മുണ്ട12 tackles and earning first-team Class AAAAA honors. This performance led him to the South Carolina Gamecocks, where his collegiate career saw him emerge as a defensive leader, notably recording 97 tackles in his sophomore season and 86 tackles as a junior.
Jones entered the NFL in the 2021 draft, selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the third round as the 103rd overall pick. His rookie season was a whirlwind of activity; after being moved into the starting lineup following a trade involving Kenny Young, Jones contributed significantly to the Rams' Super Bowl LVI victory. During that championship run, he recorded seven tackles and one sack in the game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The latter part of his career has been marked by significant movement and high-value contracts. After stints with the Tennessee Titans and a major trade to the Seattle Seahawks in October 2024, Jones solidified his status as an elite defender. His impact in Seattle was punctuated by an 85-yard interception touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings, earning him NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. In March 2025, the Seahawks secured his future with a three-year, $33 million contract, a commitment that preceded his victory in Super Bowl LX in February 2026.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Ernest Jones (linebacker)
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