Shake-Up in Athens: Kirby Smart’s Inner Circle Hit Again as Another Bulldog Great Walks Away
In a move that has sent ripples through the Georgia Bulldogs football program, Jarvis Jones, a beloved former All-American linebacker and rising coaching star, is leaving Athens to take on a new challenge. Jones, who has been an integral part of Kirby Smart’s coaching staff, is departing to become the head coach at Carver High School in Columbus, Georgia.
A Bulldog Legend Moves On
Jones, a two-time All-American at Georgia, was one of the most dominant defensive players in the program’s history. His record-setting 14.5 sacks and 24.5 tackles for loss in 2012 cemented his legacy as one of the greatest linebackers to ever wear the red and black. After a stint in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jones returned to Georgia in 2019 as a student assistant and later became a player connection coordinator, helping develop the next generation of Bulldogs.
His departure marks another significant change in Kirby Smart’s inner circle, following previous coaching staff shake-ups. While Jones was not a primary position coach, his presence was deeply felt in the locker room and on the practice field, where he worked closely with Georgia’s outside linebackers.
A New Chapter at Carver High
Jones is returning to his roots, taking over as head coach at Carver High School, where he first made a name for himself as a standout recruit in 2009. His appointment comes after Pierre Coffey, Carver’s previous head coach, was hired as a principal at Stewart County High.
Carver High, the defending Georgia 2A State Champions, is getting a coach with NFL experience, college football dominance, and a deep understanding of leadership. Jones’ ability to connect with young athletes and his firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed at the highest levels make him an exciting hire for one of Georgia’s premier high school football programs.
