By Kyle Roberts
Ruston Bearcat fans have known for a long time how special senior linebacker Jadon Mayfield is to this football program.
And today, the Louisiana Sports Writers Association has announced that Mayfield is the 5A all-state defensive outstanding player of the year, which is little surprise to the followers of the Firmly Founded after watching the Louisiana Tech signee finish with 114 tackles on the year, of which nine were for a loss of yards.
“I think what Jadon has done this year obviously speaks for itself and it seems others agree,” Ruston head coach Jerrod Baugh said. “He is a very special player and person. We will miss him very much but will be watching to see where his next step takes him.”
Mayfield is joined on the all-state team by junior running back Jordan Hayes on the offensive side, along with both senior defensive end Geordan Guidry and junior cornerback Aidan Anding.
Hayes’ outstanding 2023 rushing campaign yielded 1694 yards on the ground with 20 touchdowns.
Guidry proved to be a sack machine after terrorizing quarterbacks for 10.5 sacks on the year with 60 tackles in all. Anding would tally four interceptions, but he likely cemented his name on the all-state team after his electrifying punt return for a touchdown near the end of the first half against Zachary in the state championship game.
Senior wide receiver Zhy Scott and senior cornerback Semaj Jones along with senior offensive lineman Sam Nations all earned honorable mention, as did junior quarterback Josh Brantley, senior defensive end Ahmad Breaux, senior defensive back Nate Johnson and junior linebacker Zheric Hill.
“We are always proud of those that are recognized individually for the accomplishments of our team and the part they played in our success,” Baugh said. “I think all of those guys are very deserving of that recognition and we are very proud of them.”
Ruston High won its first football state championship in 33 years with a 31-17 win over Zachary in the Superdome on Saturday, Dec. 9.
