Mississippi State’s Kelley Jones Named to Lott IMPACT Trophy Watchlist

STARKVILLE, Miss. — Mississippi State cornerback Kelley Jones has been named to the watchlist for the 2026 Lott IMPACT Trophy, the organization announced Thursday. The award honors the top defensive player who demonstrates integrity, maturity, performance, academics, community involvement, and tenacity.

The trophy is named after NFL Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott, reflecting qualities Lott displayed throughout his career. Jones, a Clarksdale, Mississippi native, is entering his redshirt junior season after a standout 2025 campaign. He earned third-team All-SEC honors from the league’s coaches and was ranked No. 147 on CBS’s Top 150 players for 2025.

Jones started all 13 games last season, recording 34 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and two interceptions. Pro Football Focus reported that he allowed only 11 receptions on 38 targets, a 28.9% completion rate—the best among all cornerbacks who played at least half of their team’s snaps. His 11 receptions allowed also led SEC cornerbacks.

The preseason recognition continues for Jones, who was recently ranked No. 25 on On3’s Top 100 Players of 2026. The winner of the Lott IMPACT Trophy will be selected by a national panel, including former winners, media members, coaches, and IMPACT Foundation board members. The award will be presented at a black-tie gala at The Pacific Club on Dec. 9, 2026.

For updates on Mississippi State football, fans can follow the team on X, Facebook, and Instagram by searching for “HailStateFB.”

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