We tell you everything you need to know about the 2024 Valdosta High School football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Wildcats this season.
2023 Stats
- Overall Record: 8-4
- Points Scored: 391
- Points Allowed: 262
Key Losses
Valdosta loses one of the top defensive ends in the state with the graduation of Eric Brantley. The top recruit is now at Florida Atlantic.
Other big losses to the Valdosta defense are free safety Jaylen Bentley, who signed with Georgia Southern; linebacker Amari Tomblin, who graduated and is now at Reinhardt University; and safety Jabari Baker, who was a captain of the defense last season and is now at Georgia Military College.
Jontavious “Tay” McGriff was a force on Valdosta’s offense as a tight end, on defense at linebacker, and on special teams. His all-around presence will be missed.
The Wildcats will miss two offensive linemen who were critical to the run and pass game in 2023. Offensive tackles Jalen Burgess and Demauree “Smoke” Bennett have taken their talents to the next level, with Burgess joining Bentley at Georgia Southern and Bennett now at Fort Valley State.
Who’s Back
Returning to the Wildcats in 2024 is quarterback Todd Robinson, who has blossomed into a top Division I prospect heading into his senior season.
This will be Robinson’s third year in the Valdosta offensive system, and he will be surrounded by a lot of returning talent, including sophomore running back and athlete Deron Foster. The former ITG Next Middle School Player of the Year is coming off a strong freshman season debut with the Valdosta varsity, where he rushed for 912 yards with 12 touchdowns.
Wide receiver Prince Jean is back to give Valdosta a major threat in the receiving corps, along with Eli Lewis and Marquis Fennell.
The team welcomes back two-way standout Nykobi Brown, along with defensive backs Jalon Copeland and Cam Brown. The three players are each receiving several Division I offers.
Also returning to the defensive backfield are Seth Brown Jr. and Khalil Mollay, and defensive tackle Marcus Williams returns to the defensive front.
What to Expect
The Wildcats should be strong with several skill position players returning for the 2024 season, especially in the offensive backfield and at receiver, where the team will likely be the deepest talent-wise.
With Robinson returning at QB, he’ll give the Valdosta offense leadership and experience at the team’s most important position.
On the defense, the secondary will have more returning starters than any other area on the team, with head coach Shelton Felton calling it “extremely talented.”
“We are looking to take the next step in competing for a region championship, as well as a playoff run,” Felton said.
Prediction
10-3 overall record with a chance at a region top seed
Game to Watch
Oct. 4 at home against Colquitt County
