Quarterback Paul Jones was very productive during the off-season conditioning sessions and in spring practice, coming out of spring drills No. 2 at quarterback on the depth chart. A redshirt sophomore, Jones is looking forward to the opportunity to continue competing for playing time and make his Penn State debut this fall. Possessing great arm strength, athleticism, instincts and mobility, he has made significant progress in learning the Nittany Lions' new offense. Jones will look to push Matt McGloin for playing time and gives the team another dimension with his ability to run and strength as a ball carrier. Jones was among five future Nittany Lions selected to play in the 2010 U.S. Army All-American Bowl and was rated the No. 2 prep quarterback in the nation at Sto-Rox High School. He is among 16 returning Nittany Lions who are from talent-rich Western Pennsylvania.
2011 • SOPHOMORE SEASON
Jones practiced with the team throughout the season, but did not see any game action due to academic reasons.
2010 • FRESHMAN SEASON
Redshirt season. Jones was the primary quarterback on the foreign team, preparing the defense each week in practice. He enrolled in the University in January 2010. Jones had an impressive collegiate debut in front of the 55,000 fans in the stands, Nittany Nation and an ESPN2 audience. He tossed the 2010 Blue-White game[apos]s only two touchdowns, both to Shawney Kersey, leading the Blue team to victory in the annual intrasquad scrimmage. Jones was 5-of-8 for 67 yards, with both scoring strikes to Kersey covering 18 yards.
HIGH SCHOOL
Scout.com rated Jones the No. 2 prep quarterback in the nation, while playing for Coach Jason Ruscitto at Sto-Rox HS. Rivals.com ranked Jones the nation[apos]s No. 8 prep signal-caller. He was selected to play in the 2010 U.S. Army All-American Bowl, was a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Fabulous 22 member and All-WPIAL. Despite missing part of his senior season with an injury, Jones completed 112-of-215 passes for 1,667 yards and 16 touchdowns, leading the Class AA Vikings to a 7-2 record. During his junior year, he threw for 2,020 yards and 24 scores. Over his standout career, he passed for 5,667 yards and 60 touchdowns. He also was captain of the basketball and baseball teams.
PERSONAL
Full name is Paul Jones; nickname is 'P.J.' He is the son of Paul Sr. and Jennifer Jones. He has four younger brothers, Malcolm, Jeremiah, Daniel and Kristifer, and one sister, Jena. In his spare time, Jones enjoys hanging out with his teammates and friends and watching movies. He is enrolled in the College of Education. Born May 17, 1992 in Pittsburgh, Pa.