Football | 8/12/2025 8:18:00 AM
The Clinton High School Football team enters a new chapter this fall as first-year Head Football Coach Hamer Morgan, who is a familiar face for the Arrows, takes the helm, continuing proven fundamentals to the program and bringing a blend of fresh ideas. With the first week of practice under their belts and the season opener just around the corner, the Arrows and Morgan are focused on building consistency, sharpening execution, and leaning on the leadership of veteran players.
Defensive Leadership Sets the Tone
One of the team's biggest strengths this season is its experienced defensive unit. Despite losing a number of seniors from last year's roster, the defense boasts key returners who have been battle-tested. The defensive unit is directed by Defensive Coordinator Brit Rowell.
"They know what it takes," Morgan said. "They've been in those tight moments and understand the intensity and urgency needed to win. That leadership shows up every day."
Potential returning starters for the Arrows include Dallas Johnson, Donovan Shaifer, Jaiden Jefferson, Miles Bass, Trevis Coley, and Jaiden King. Many of these defensive players earned all-region honors during the 2024 campaign.
Blending Old and New on Offense
Offensively, Morgan and Offensive Coordinator Ben Shelton are striking a balance between Clinton's familiar spread attack and new run-game concepts. Morgan believes the combination will give the Arrows more versatility and balance as they work to sustain drives and control the tempo of games.
While in transition, signal callers Jayden Jones and Gage Temple have picked up a decent amount of snaps during the preseason activities. Jacob Jones, Tyboris Loftin, and Graham Williams are three returners from the 2024 offensive line. A slew of new faces will look to fill in the running-back and wide-receiver roles for the Arrows.
Special Teams Stability
Special teams will also be a source of confidence for Clinton, thanks to the return of senior kicker-punter Braylon Spann. After stepping in last season to replace Hayden Wolfe, Spann, who has comitted to Hinds Community College has continued to refine his craft.
"He's a hard worker," Morgan said. "His range on field goals has improved, and I think we'll get some touch backs on kickoffs this year. He's a great example for our younger guys."
Countdown to the Fall Scrimmage
The Arrows are still in the early stages of fall camp, with full pads set to come on next week. Clinton will get its first live-action test against the Vicksburg Gators on Friday, August 22, in Vicksburg. The format will feature a varsity quarter, followed by junior varsity segment, another varsity quarter, and a final JV segment.
For Morgan, the focus is on progress, not perfection.
"It's still a lot of teaching," he said. "But we've seen a lot of progress at a lot of positions. We just need to keep getting better every day."
Clinton starts the 2025 season with a home opener against long-time rival Warren Central on Friday, August 29, at Arrow Field. The game kicks off at 7 p.m.
