Jamon Dumas-Johnson, a standout linebacker from Kentucky, is gearing up to showcase his skills in the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl.
Dumas-Johnson will be the 13th player all time under Head Coach Mark Stoops to accept the invite.
Originally hailing from Hyattsville, Maryland, Dumas-Johnson made a significant impact during his time at Kentucky after transferring from Georgia. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 245 pounds, he quickly established himself as a key player on the Wildcats’ defense.
In his sole season at Kentucky, Dumas-Johnson was featured on the Comeback Player of the Year Award Watch List, Butkus Award Watch List and was selected as Third Team All-SEC by Phil Steele.
Despite missing the Murray State game with injury, Dumas-Johnson started all 11 games he played in at Kentucky. In those games, he would lead the Wildcats in total tackles and rank third in tackles for loss and sacks. His first defensive series as a Wildcat saw Dumas-Johnson record his second career interception.
Before his time at Kentucky, Dumas-Johnson had a successful stint at Georgia, where he was part of a championship-winning team. As a freshman, he played in 14 of UGA’s 15 games, finishing the season with 22 total stops, 2.0 QB sacks and 2.5 tackles for loss.
Dumas-Johnson’s performance in high-stakes games further showcased his talent. In 2022 as a sophomore, he posted four tackles and two QB hurries against TCU in the CFP National Championship Game and contributed with two tackles, a sack and three QB hurries against Ohio State in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl.
His tenure there included numerous accolades and recognition for his defensive prowess. Despite facing challenges, including injuries, he demonstrated resilience and determination, ultimately leading to his transfer to Kentucky, where he continued to excel.
The Maryland native would finish his career with 192 total tackles, including 24.0 for loss, 13 sacks, six pass breakups and two interceptions. At UK he was ranked in the top 25 of the SEC in tackles per game with 6.09.
The East-West Shrine Bowl is renowned for being the longest-running college all-star football game in the United States, providing a platform for talented players to showcase their abilities in front of NFL scouts and coaches. Dumas-Johnson’s participation in this event is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. He is the 41st wildcat to accept the invitation since 1954.
Taking place on Thursday, Jan. 30, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, the game, which marks its 100th anniversary, will be broadcast live at 8 p.m. ET on the NFL Network. Dumas-Johnson will represent the East team, which is under the guidance of Marquice Williams, the head coach from the Atlanta Falcons, with Drew Wilkins serving as the defensive coordinator most recently from the New England Patriots.