Mount Carmel’s Star Sophomore: Braeden Jones

Braeden Jones is a 4 Star recruit who plays Defensive End at Mount Carmel High School. Jones is ranked as the 235th best recruit in the class of 2026 and is ranked as a top 25 Defensive End in the class as well. In addition, Jones is listed as the #5 recruit in the state of Illinois and is listed as the #1 Defensive End in the state of Illinois. He holds offers from schools such as Notre Dame, USC and Florida.

Who are some role models in your life?

Some role models would be my strength and conditioning coach Joe Kubik, my grandfather and my defensive line coach Richard Russell.

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?

Lil Double O, MAF Teeski and CEO Trayle

What are the strengths of your game?

My hands, length and get off

What is your favorite memory of your career?

My favorite memory is winning a state championship this past year.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?

The best player I’ve played with is Darrion Dupree.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?

Have trust in God and don’t worry about the outside voices.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?

If I could travel anywhere I would travel to Turks and Caicos.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?

I was 6 years old.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?

Jackie Robinson or Fritz Pollard. They made black people the standard in sports and have set up many opportunities for people of color to succeed and strive.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?

My favorite sports moment was when the Blackhawks won the 2013 Stanley Cup.