For as long as one can remember, the Purvis Tornadoes have prided themselves on their ability to run the football. Part of that equation the last few years has been running back Jon Bolton and offensive linemen like Ramble Johnson.
Both are leaving big shoes to fill after signing football scholarships on Wednesday. Bolton chose Alcorn State, while Johnson is headed to Northwest Mississippi Community College.
Johnson helped pave the way for back-to-back 1000-yard seasons for Bolton in 2016 and 2017.
“I ran behind him [Johnson] ever since I was a freshman,” Bolton said. “He’s been a good lineman, and I know he’s going to do good at Northwest. It’s going to work out fine.”
“I love that guy,” Johnson said of Bolton. “I wish he would’ve signed with me, but he’s going to a good school. I’m happy for him.”
Bolton chose the Braves over Tuskegee and several junior college programs.
“I went on an official visit Saturday, and I really enjoyed myself,” Bolton said. “They brought me in like a family, and it’s just a brotherhood up there.”
“Jon came up as a freshman. He’s been a two-year starter, but he’s contributed every year. He’s just a football player,” Purvis head coach Wheat said. “He loves the game, works at it and thinks about it. He has the respect of his teammates and will be truly missed.”
Like Bolton, Johnson had his fair share of options as well. In the end, he chose Northwest, who captured a national championship back in 2015.
“I’m just really excited and really happy with where I signed,” Johnson said. “They’ve got a good coach, team and program. Just really excited.”
More than accolades like national titles, the fit was what really lured Johnson to Senatobia.
“What I look for is just a good coach and a good program, because I don’t plan on being there for too long,” Johnson added. “I plan on going bigger and better.”
“Ramble’s another guy that came up as a freshman,” Wheat said. “He’s been a starter for us for two years and has played a lot. He also snapped for us, so we have a lot of shoes to fill there. Two positions, basically.
“He’s a big kid that hasn’t truly developed, so his best football is going to be ahead when he gets another year or so on the weights. I think he’s going to be a big-time player.”
