HS Football Player Julian Jones Dies at 16

Julian Jones, a highly regarded Alabama high school football player, died Monday from an apparent suicide. He was 16.  

John Talty of AL.com reports Jones, the son of former NFL tight end Anthony Jones, was an emerging talent at defensive end. He also followed in his father's footsteps, playing tight end on the offensive side of the ball.

The report states that an autopsy is expected to be performed Tuesday:

"

Julian Jones, a standout defensive end from Hazel Green High School, passed away this morning, Madison County coroner Craig Whisenant confirmed to AL.com. The coroner said suicide is the cause of death, with an autopsy expected to be performed on Tuesday. ...

Jones' tragic death robs the Hazel Green community and the state of Alabama of one of its top young football players.

"

Hazel Green High School head coach Matt Putnam passed along his condolences on Twitter:

No further information about Jones' death was immediately released.

A member of the class of 2016, Jones was already generating serious attention from several top programs. 247Sports' composite rankings listed him as the No. 17 prospect in the state of Alabama, and the outlet named Alabama, Mississippi State, Auburn and South Carolina among the interested schools.

247Sports also notes he was on an unofficial visit with Auburn for last year's memorable Iron Bowl against the Crimson Tide.

He also received praise from Andrew Bone of Rivals:

His combination of size (6'5'', 235 pounds) and athleticism made him the ideal defensive end prospect.

Hazel Green quarterback Cole Guffey was very emotional and praised Jones as an individual:

Another teammate, Daniel Thrower, passed along a picture of what appeared to be a stack of recruiting information for Jones:

Based on the outpouring of support, it's clear Jones not only made an impact on the field, but also made a positive impression on those who played alongside him.