The most decorative offensive lineman of the Nick Saban era at Alabama can now add father to his list of accomplishments.
On Friday, Barrett Jones welcomed a healthy baby boy into his family. He shared a photo via Twitter as Barret Anderson Jones, Jr. entered the world at 8 lbs., 6 ounces and 21 inches long.
Per the former All-American, he will go by Anderson.
Today at 10 AM we got to meet our son! Barrett Anderson Jones, Jr. (going by Anderson) is 8lbs 6oz and 21 inches long! We are in awe of God’s mercy and goodness on this special Good Friday! pic.twitter.com/AN17e4VA2z
— Barrett Jones (@BarrettAJones) April 10, 2020
Prior to becoming a father, Jones arrived in Saban’s first big recruiting class in 2008.
Hailing from Memphis, Tenn., he redshirted his freshman year and would later become one of college football’s most versatile linemen.
He started all 13 games at right tackle in 2009, pacing Mark Ingram to 1,658 yards rushing with 17 touchdowns.
Jones helped Ingram win the program’s first-ever Heisman Trophy. After assisting the team to a BCS National Championship that season, Jones moved to left tackle in 2011. He protected a first-year starting quarterback in A.J. McCarron and cleared the way for Trent Richardson to capture 1,679 yards rushing with 21 scores – both of which were single-season school records.
Alabama secured its second national title of the Saban era and in 2012, Jones fulfilled a team need once again in moving to center.
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He blocked for two 1,000-yard rushers – Eddie Lacy and T.J. Yeldon – while providing McCarron time to throw for 30 touchdowns. Amari Cooper, a freshman then, benefitted greatly from Jones as his protection led to him catching 59 passes for 1,000 yards with 11 scores.
A third national title ring made its way to Jones’ hand in the Tide’s victory over Notre Dame.
Following a highly successful collegiate career, he spent three years in the National Football League on four different teams. Despite pro football not working out, Jones has done great humanitarian work and is even branching out in terms of media.
Could little Anderson be the next great lineman for Alabama in the future?
Maybe, but a big congrats to Jones is in order for now.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
