Jonsean Young’s Return Sparks Morgan Park’s Success

Junior running back Jonsean Young has found unexpected benefits from a knee injury that kept him off the field for Morgan Park. During summer training, his injury delayed his season’s start, but it also reignited his passion for the sport. “I realized how much I missed everything and wanted to be back,” Young shared. His determination showed on Saturday afternoon when he broke through for a 32-yard run, leading to his go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter. This effort helped the Mustangs secure a 20-6 Public League Red Star victory over Simeon at Chicago’s Rockne Stadium.

With junior quarterback Ronald Smith Jr. connecting on a 54-yard touchdown pass to senior wide receiver Travezz Jones, Morgan Park achieved its fifth straight win, bringing their record to 5-1, 3-0 in league play. Young’s 1-yard touchdown run at the start of the fourth quarter broke a 6-6 tie, a vital point emphasized by junior defensive end Milen Porter. Having two sacks and seven tackles, Porter noted the significance of Young’s contribution. “We needed that so badly,” Porter remarked, praising Young’s resilience and physical running game despite his season-long injury.

Following William Smith Jr.’s 64-yard touchdown in the opening moments, Morgan Park’s offense faced challenges that Young’s return helped overcome. William Smith Jr. admired Young’s heightened determination since his return. “As soon as he came back, he had a hungry mentality,” Smith commented, extolling Young’s effort and positive presence off the field.

Since returning, Young has played only three games and delivered efficiently with four touchdowns. Against Simeon, he appeared in the second half, recording 61 yards from seven carries. Coaches cautiously managed his playing time, but Young remained fresh for key moments. “We needed a first down and the coaches put me in,” Young explained, appreciating the opportunity to contribute actively to the team’s success.

Young considers himself about 95% healthy, showcasing speed and adaptability on the field. His running style involves forceful advancements between tackles, consistently aiming to support team victories. Young has sustained a reputation for toughness since joining varsity in his freshman year. He also maintains a family legacy that includes cousin Bucky Irving, a Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back who was a former Hillcrest star. “Football goes back generations in my family,” Young acknowledged, inspired by his family and aspiring to make football his career.

From a young age, Young developed a love for football, often playing with any stray ball around the house. This passion drove him toward learning other skills, such as clothing design, influenced by seeing his brothers engaged in similar entrepreneurial activities. “I like to design shirts and clothes,” Young stated, having explored the field about three years ago.

Looking forward, Young aims for college play, expressing excitement at returning to the game. “There’s so much satisfaction running the ball and playing,” he elaborated, sharing how football serves as an outlet.

Patrick Z. McGavin reports for the Daily Southtown.