Jaden Jones enters his first season as an assistant coach with the Shaw University football program in 2026, returning to his alma mater after a successful collegiate playing career with the Bears and LaGrange College.
Jones played three seasons at Shaw from 2022-24, appearing in 25 games on the defensive side of the ball. He recorded 89 total tackles, including 49 solo stops, four tackles for loss, a half-sack, one interception and two pass breakups.
His best season with the Bears came in 2023 when he appeared in 10 games and finished with 52 tackles, including 29 solo stops, three tackles for loss, a half-sack and an interception.
Before arriving at Shaw, Jones played at LaGrange College in 2021. He made an immediate impact defensively, recording 53 tackles, 15 tackles for loss and seven sacks in nine games while adding two forced fumbles.
Over his collegiate career, Jones totaled 142 tackles, 19 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks across 34 games.
Now transitioning from player to coach, Jones brings familiarity with the Shaw program along with recent playing experience to the Bears' coaching staff. His return to Raleigh gives him an opportunity to help develop the next generation of Shaw student-athletes while continuing his football career from the sidelines.
