Howard Jones makes transition from small school to big time

By Chris Bradford

LATROBE -- LB Howard Jones, who comes from one of the most unlikely places, was one of the more unlikely stars in Saturday’s loss to the Giants.

The undrafted rookie out of Shepherd University -- a Division II program in West Virginia with an enrollment of 4,200 -- had a pair of fumble recoveries, including one that he returned 28 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. Jones said he wasn’t sure he had scored until replay confirmed the ruling on the field that there had been a fumble.

If Jones is to make the team, he’ll likely to have to add weight (he’s 238 pounds) and it will likely be for his work on special teams. Jones is more than OK with that.

“It’s definitely different, but I’m capable of doing it and willing to do it,” said Jones, who is Shepherd’s all-time leader in sacks (35).

READ MORE: http://www.timesonline.com/sports/steelers/steelers-insider-jones-makes-transition-from-small-school-to-big/article_c894ab85-b688-5a01-81ff-c12221357aab.html

I wish the best of luck to him. Would be a great story for a young man working hard.

Representing my Alma Mater. Way to go Jones, I hope you find a place on the roster.

Like I need another reason to be a Steelers fan!

He scooped up another fumble in the game vs. the Bills.

I really like this guy and I think he has great potential.

Look at how many greats the smaller schools have produced: Lambert (Kent State), BB (Miami of Ohio), AB (Central Michigan).

Jones has a chance to make the roster on special teams. He hasn't shown much at linebacker, but he certainly seems to always be in the right place at the right time. I'm not sure if he's good, but he's definitely lucky.

Wallace108 wrote:

Jones has a chance to make the roster on special teams. He hasn't shown much at linebacker, but he certainly seems to always be in the right place at the right time. I'm not sure if he's good, but he's definitely lucky.

I'll take lucky on special teams any day.

Wallace108 wrote:

Jones has a chance to make the roster on special teams. He hasn't shown much at linebacker, but he certainly seems to always be in the right place at the right time. I'm not sure if he's good, but he's definitely lucky.

He can take Shazier's spot on ST. I'd hate to have Shazier on ST in the regular season.

I don't care how he makes the roster, I just want him to make the roster so I can say I went to the same school.

Howard Jones didn't make the roster. Sad to say. I hope he at least comes back to the practice squad.