(Photo: Stephen Lew)
After a 1-8 campaign in 2023, the thomas Jefferson Jaguars started slowly last season but ripped off four straight victories to make the Division III Select playoffs, falling to Slaughter Charter. It was the first playoff appearance since 2019, finishing with a 5-6 record overall.
The Jaguars are in search of a winning season for the first time since 2014 when they were led by Kevin Kelly, the first coach of the program.
Kenny Bush enters his seventh year as the head coach of the Jaguars.
There is reason for optimism in 2025.
“We have a good number of players returning from last season so I expect us to be better,” Bush said.
While running back Sirchristian Weaver and defensive district MVP Bryce Wilkerson have graduated, there is experience and talent returning.
At quarterback, senior Jaden Louis (5-8, 150) is a second-year starter who rushed for over 500 yards last season.
“Jaden is a very good runner and decision maker,” Bush said. “Last year, we did not ask him to pass much but when we did, he delivered. I’m expecting to lean on him a little more this year.”
The running back position is also strong with the return of senior Wing back Jonathan Dupont III (5-10, 175).
“Dupont had some explosive runs for us last season,” Bush said. “We expect even more from him in his senior season.”
Senior Thamus Jenkins (5-10, 160) is a three-year starter who can line up at running back or wide receiver. Senior Nicholas Chevis (5-10, 170) is a two-year starter at receiver with excellent speed who will also start on defense.
Senior tight end David Leal (6-0, 185) is a good one who can block and is a solid receiver as a second year starter.
The strength offensively is up front, where all five linemen return, most of which will also play on the defensive line.
Senior Daniel Chastant (5-11, 235), junior Brady Fay (5-11, 230), junior William Irving, (6-1, 240), junior Raed Salem (5-8, 200) and senior Ashton Woods (5-10, 235) are all back while Tommy Conaway will also rotate in. Woods and Fay are three-year starters.
“That is the strength of our team,” Bush said. “We are good up front and experienced. That will help our Wing T run game significantly.”
The defensive line features Conaway, along with other offensive linemen playing both ways. Sophomore Mario Johnson (6-4, 225) will provide size and run support. Senior Gaylin Smith (6-0, 190) lines up at defensive end.
At linebacker, senior Frank Taulli (5-10, 155) is a two-year starter. Senior Jonathan Dupont II will start at an outside spot.
The secondary features Chevis, who will start at cornerback while junior Charles Turner will start at safety. Seniors Francis Nguyen and Gunnar Dupre will also start.
The schedule opens at home against Covenant Christian and at Centerville. Home games with Sarah Reed and Cohen are next.
“I like our non-district slate,” Bush said. “We lost close games early in the season and I hope with experience, we can turn that around.”
District 9-3A play opens with home games against Haynes Academy and Young Audiences Charter. The Jaguars will be visitors in the final three district games against Patrick Taylor, Jefferson Rise and Fisher.
There is a realistic chance to capture a first district title in school history.
“Last year, we lost to Haynes but I’m feeling pretty good about our chances in the league this year. We have a shot.”
With an experienced team and confidence, this could be the first winning season for Thomas Jefferson since 2019 with a first playoff win a real possibility, as is winning its first playoff game ever.
“I’m hoping this is finally the year we get a district championship,” Bush said. “If we stay healthy, we can do so and make the playoffs again with a chance to win.”
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