Northeast Jones 8th grader selected to play in All-State Gridiron Classic

JONES COUNTY, Miss. - The Mississippi Prospects All-State Gridiron Classic will happen on Saturday.

Thousands of kids applied, but only 400 were chosen.

One of them happened to be Northeast Jones 8th grader, Xavier Barnett.

Xavier said "it's just a great opportunity to be out here and do what I'm doing. It's just what I like to do. In football, I just like hitting and running."

Xavier plays wide receiver for Northeast Jones and tries to model his game after New York Giants All-Pro wide receiver, Odell Beckham.

The skills he is learning will help him become a better athlete.

"I never thought my son would get to meet so many amazing players and just for him to have the chance to be one-on-one on the field and even practice with some of the best of the state," said Xavier’s mother, Markita Barnett.

Although Xavier is one of the best prospects in the state, the work ethic that got him here will only help him further his career.

"Push hard every day, work hard, and hard work and dedication will pay off," said Xavier.

The Mississippi Prospects All-State Gridiron Classic football games will be played at The Rock.