Axavian Jones is big on family. His friends and family know him as Xay Bug and have given him loyal support as he’s played defensive back for the Brookhaven High Panthers. Those are the people Jones had in mind on Wednesday when he signed a letter-of-intent with Copiah-Lincoln Community College.

“I knew I wanted my family to be able to come watch me play,” said Jones. “There is nothing like having their support when you take the field.”

As his senior season progressed Jones began to hear from community colleges from around the state. He garnered offers from Coahoma, Northeast Mississippi, and Pearl River. When Jones got an offer from his hometown team though, he knew that he wanted to join the Wolf Pack.

“Co-Lin has a group of really talented receivers coming back next year,” said Jones. “It’s going to be a challenge everyday going one on one with those guys. I’m looking forward to it.”

Jones won’t just have his family supporting him in the stand, he’ll have his brother in his position group. Xay Bug’s brother J.J. transferred to Co-Lin at the beginning of the Spring Semester after playing at Southern Miss as a true freshman.

“I’m excited to play with my brother again,” said Jones. “He says there’s a lot of talent coming back for Co-Lin.”

Co-Lin and longtime head coach Glenn Davis finished 6-4 in 2018 as they were runners-up in the MACJC South-Division. The Wolves have always sent tons of players on to the next level of college football at the position of defensive back. Recent Co-Lin alums playing at the FBS level of college football as DBs include Jaquariues Landrews (Mississippi State), Keith Washington (West Virginia), Rhoy Williams (Louisiana-Monroe), Tyler Glass (Louisiana-Monroe), Graham Eukland (North Carolina), Harrell Blackmon (Old Dominion), and Edwin Whitlock (North Texas).

The 5-foot-10, 165-pound Jones made 22 tackles as a senior for the 7-6 BHS Panthers. He tied for the team lead with three interceptions and broke up a team high seven passes while also recovering one fumble.

Jones has a long build to go along with physicality and athleticism. That’s something he uses to his advantage.

“I’ve got long arms for a guy my height,” said Jones. “I think that helps me when I have to be physical at the line of scrimmage and that’s something the coaches at Co-Lin like about my game. I can’t wait to get out there with my new team.”