Ridge Point’s Dane Jones (4) awaits the offensive play call in a game against Bridgeland at Cy Fair FCU Stadium. Credit Jimmie Aggison/Defender.
The Ridge Point Panthers have cemented their status as a dominant force in Texas high school football, capping off an undefeated season in 6A Region III District 20 and claiming their 10th district championship in the past 13 years. With the playoffs underway, the team’s hopes for a deep postseason run rest heavily on the shoulders of their 5-foot-11 senior wide receiver, Dane Jones.
“He’s dynamic and explosive,” said head football coach Rick LaFavers. “He’s a tremendous athlete. He might not be as tall, but he’s very strong and powerful. He has great hands, great range, and we’re trying to get the ball in his hands as much as we can.”
Jones has become a cornerstone of Ridge Point’s high-powered offense, which is led by senior quarterback and University of Houston commit Austin Carlisle. Together, they have formed one of the most dynamic duos in the state, propelling the Panthers to new heights.
Jones transferred to Ridge Point from Shadow Creek High School during his sophomore year, a move that initially raised eyebrows. However, a bond forged with Carlisle during a training session convinced him that Ridge Point was the perfect place to showcase his talent.
“Austin and I have the same trainer, Tim Boutte, so we built a relationship quickly,” said Jones, who has committed to TCU. “He told me his vision for our upcoming junior season, and with me being a wide receiver, it was a better situation for me to go to a program where the quarterback had more offensive control and enjoyed the passing game.”
Since then, Jones has been nothing short of electric. A four-star recruit with elite speed, agility and route-running ability, he has dominated opposing defenses all season. He has recorded 961 yards and 16 touchdowns on 54 receptions, adding to his already impressive junior campaign, where he tallied 825 yards and 13 touchdowns. This season has been filled with multiple 100-yard games, including a 140-yard, four-touchdown game against Austin High School and a 151-yard effort against Hightower.
“I feel I’ve shown that I’m more than just an average receiver that runs routes,” Jones said. “I have the ability to rack up yards after the catch regardless of the defender guarding me.”
Although Ridge Point has had success this season, the Panthers are seeking redemption after last year’s early playoff exit, a heartbreaking 28-31 loss to Houston Lamar in the second round. That defeat has fueled the team’s determination, and with all its offensive pieces clicking, Ridge Point is poised for a deeper run.
“When Dane first came to Ridge Point, it was all about rebuilding,” said Carlisle. “We trained and worked on timing and routes all summer long to prepare for this kind of moment. Anytime I see Dane matched up one-on-one, everyone in the city knows what’s about to happen.”
Off the field, Jones’s success has garnered national attention. With 19 Division I offers, he ultimately chose TCU over Missouri, Florida, Boston College and Houston. He cites TCU receivers coach Malcolm Kelly as a key influence.
“Coach Kelly has a proven record of putting receivers in the league, and I want to be a part of that,” said Jones. “TCU has always been solid since they’ve recruited me. I’ve built a strong relationship with the whole staff, and they have a plan for me and have shown me where I can be successful in their offense.
As Ridge Point continues its playoff push, the focus remains on the connection between Jones and Carlisle and their ability to lead the team to glory. Dane Jones has become the heartbeat of the Panthers’ championship aspirations with his highlight-reel catches, unmatched athleticism, and fierce determination.
About Dane Jones:
Class: 2025
IG: @danejonesss
Twitter: @iamdanejones_
Position: Wide receiver
Height & weight: 5-feet-11, 175 pounds
Favorite artist: Destroy Lonely
Status: Committed to TCU
Favorite subject: Psychology
