From Field to Flight
Commanders’ Corner Jonathan Jones Inspires Youth at Historic College Park Airport
By Kennedy Edgerton
NFL cornerback Jonathan Jones — the newest addition to the Washington Commanders’ defensive squad — took a unique and high-flying approach to inspire youth across Maryland.
On May 27, Jones piloted his aircraft into the College Park Aviation Museum and Airport, the oldest continuously operating airfield in the state. As the plane's wheels touched down, a crowd of fans and families erupted in applause. Inside the museum, young attendees jumped to their feet, eagerly awaiting his arrival and remarks.
While Jones is best known for his dominance on the football field — a nine-season NFL veteran with two Super Bowl victories — many are unaware that he is also a licensed private pilot. He earned his wings three years ago, all while serving as the top cornerback for the New England Patriots.
But Jones wasn’t there to talk stats. After his introduction, he quickly shifted the conversation to his passion for aviation and the power of pursuing diverse interests. He shared how fellow NFL players are often surprised to learn he’s a pilot — and how that reaction opens the door to deeper conversations about what athletes (and anyone) are capable of beyond the field.
“I get DMs from other athletes all the time,” Jones said. “I’m always telling them they already have the skills — the ability to perform under pressure and retain complex information. That translates well to aviation.”
“They’ve been inspired by some of the videos I’ve posted online,” he added. “And that’s another opportunity I love to give — showing what’s possible.”
The discussion expanded beyond football and flight. Jones spoke about his mother’s influence, sharing how she encouraged him from a young age to explore life outside of athletics, including community service. He emphasized the importance of identity and purpose beyond sport.
“Having the opportunity to do things outside of football and inspire people is what my life is about,” Jones said. “I love football, but there’s so much more to me as a person — and I hope that inspires others.”
The room was locked in as he touched on fatherhood, leadership, and balance — especially the balance between a high-pressure NFL career and a commitment to aviation. When the floor opened for questions, a diverse line quickly formed — from high school students to practicing attorneys — all eager to engage.
One young woman bravely approached the microphone to ask about ways to fund flight school. Jones commended her courage, offered suggestions for scholarships and grants, and even connected her with his team for additional resources — a gesture that visibly moved the crowd.
More students followed with similar questions, encouraged by the accessible, supportive tone Jones set.
As the event concluded, the crowd once again erupted in applause, and Jones stayed behind to take photos with fans and share handshakes and words of encouragement
Reflecting on the evening, one middle school student summed up the impact.
“During this event, I found out that if you persevere, you can do anything you want in life,” he said. “You don’t have to stick to just one thing. You can have many careers — and never stop chasing what you truly want.”
