When Davis Harrison signed with Jones College in 2017, he did so with the expectation that he would play quarterback. 

A logjam at the position in Ellisville resulted in Harrison playing slot receiver for the first half of his freshman season until one of Jones College’s coordinators had an idea.

“He said, ‘I know you played (defense) in high school,’ Harrison recalled. “After that game, I was full-time defense.”

Harrison finished his freshman campaign with eight total tackles and two fumble recoveries. This year, he’s had even more of an impact for No. 5 Jones College. 

The 6-foot, 191-pound linebacker has appeared in all 11 of Jones College’s games this season and he’s tallied 18 solo tackles and seven assists. He’s had six tackles for losses and has recovered a fumble and recorded an interception. 

A versatile athlete at Lamar School, Harrison was a true-dual threat quarterback whose legs were as effective as his arm. He also lined up at safety, where his vision and ability to quickly cover wide swaths of the field were noteworthy.

Jones College has harnessed and capitalized on that athleticism, as Harrison has tallied passing, rushing and receiving statistics in his two years at the school.

Harrison credited his Lamar years with developing his versatility.

“I think it helped,” he said. “College is a different ball game, but playing on defense before, I kind of knew what to do and what to expect, and things like that.”

Against East Central Community College on Oct. 25, Harrison had perhaps his most impressive defensive showing to date. He recorded a 52-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown and an interception in Jones College’s 45-20 win, which was well-attended by members of his family.

“My mom, she always makes it to the games, but a couple more of my family members were able to watch me for the first time in a while,” Harrison said. “That was good.”

The Bobcats’ win over East Central also held special significance for Harrison, as it presented him the opportunity to play against his former Lamar teammate J.T. McClelland, an East Central running back.

“We talked a little bit,” Harrison said. “He was actually the one blocking me on kickoff every time. We had to joke with each other a little bit.”

Harrison will close his Jones College career on Dec. 2 against No. 7 Eastern Arizona College in Mississippi Bowl XI. The bowl appearance is Jones College’s first since the 2004 season.

Harrison currently holds offers from the University of Arkansas at Monticello and Delta State University, and he plans to make his selection next month.

With more than one season as a full-time defender under his belt, Harrison said he’s pleased with his decision to move to defense.

“I like where I am,” Harrison said. “My position is a nickel. It’s like a linebacker and a safety. And this year, I’ve even played corner some. I’ve dropped in the middle of the field, I’ve blitzed, I kind of do it all. I like that. I like being the guy on defense who is versatile who can do different things. That’s what I like about my position.”