NASHVILLE – As a youngster growing up in Waycross, Ga., Titans linebacker Ernest Jones IV made a promise to himself that if he was ever in a position to help others in need, he was going to do it.
Jones has kept that promise since entering the NFL, most recently last week.
Jones returned to his hometown in south Georgia last Wednesday during the bye week to provide free meals for more than 400 people who were impacted by Hurricane Helene.
On Friday, the NFLPA recognized Jones as the Week 6 NFLPA Community MVP for his efforts.
"The storm hit us pretty bad," Jones said on Thursday. "I had free time, and was like, 'Let's give out some free food.'
"It's just a blessing to be a blessing, honestly. Everyone was super excited. I don't get to go back home for a lot of the events I do have, so everyone was excited to see me. It was a good time."
During the past two offseasons, Jones also hosted a Back to School Giveaway in his hometown of Waycross, which is an hour east of Valdosta, and 1½ hours north of Jacksonville. He provided the youth in the community essential school supplies, backpacks, and resources to help kickstart the academic year on a positive note.
Jones said his entire family still lives in Waycross, where thousands were still without power a week after the storm
Jones said there was devastation back home like he'd never seen there before.
"We don't get that much (storm-related damage) often," he said. "So, for us that was a pretty big one. A lot of power lines affected, and a lot of houses destroyed."
Jones, who joined the Titans following a trade with the Rams before the season, said he was happy to give back.
By the reaction of those in Waycross, he could tell his good deed meant something.
"It was just good to be able to uplift the community," Jones said. "I said if I was ever blessed with that opportunity, I would do that."
Each week during the regular season, the NFLPA #CommunityMVP program honors one player who has made a positive impact in his hometown or team city.
The NFLPA will donate $10,000 to Jones's foundation, or the charity of his choice. Jones will also join the other weekly winners in being eligible for the Alan Page Award at the end of the year.
