Spring Football Recap: Columbia And Fort White Make A Run On Talent

Columbia defeated rival Fort White 14-7 last Friday. The game played to a scoreless tie after the first quarter, however in the second, Columbia would get on the board first when Xavier Collins hit Zamarion Jones for a score. Collins would toss another touchdown in the second quarter hitting Kyren Caldwell for a 32-yard score to close out the first half for the starters. Fort White would get on the board in the second half, when Mason Butler intercepted a pass and returned it 90-yards for a score. Both teams showed promise, amid typical spring football mistakes and turnovers. There is a run on talent for both teams, and Coach Brian Allen and Demetric Johnson should be excited about the Fall..

Players To Watch:

Fort White

Jayden Jackson, QB, 2026’ | 6,1, 175 lbs- A 2-sport athlete in basketball and football, Jackson is an extremely intelligent player that compliments his smooth mechanics from the point guard on court to the quarterback on the football field. An ideal athlete for college scouts, who has the natural skills to play any position due to that elite athleticism.

Lecosta Byrd, 6’0, 215lbs , 2025 LB-Defensive player of the year for the Lake City Reporter, one of the best players in the area. With 98 tackles, 2 Int’s (One pick six), 3 forced fumbles, 2 sacks, and 3 Blocked kicks, he is a playmaker, leader, and team captain. He transferred from Columbia last season.

Mike Peterson Jr, 2025, WR, 6’2, 165lbs- With 23 offers, this smooth route runner has the size and speed to give defensive back nightmares. A 3 star rated athlete by 247-sports, Peterson Jr is the son of former NFL linebacker Mike Peterson. He transferred from Buchholz where he will undoubtably make a big impact this year.

Tafari Moe-2025, 6’2, 180lbs WR- Had 15 receptions for 240-yards and 3 TDs last year. Has offers from Army and Davidson. Moe was player of the year in basketball after Fort White advanced to the regional finals this season for the first time ever, led by him.

Columbia Tigers

Zamarion Jones-2025 RB, SLOT WR| 5’10 |170LBS, -with an offer from Famu, Jones has caught the eye of college recruiters with his speed and agility. He opened the scoring for Columbia versus Fort White with a touchdown catch. He’s a dynamic playmaker that has a great connection with his QB.

Xavier Collins, 6’2, 185lbs, QB, 2027- Collins threw 5 TDs in his first career start last year as a freshman. His 2 touchdowns in the spring game highlight a positive showing of his true potential as a playmaker and passer. He showed a great knack for hitting different receivers in the spring game. College coaches should definitely offer this young dynamic athlete, who is just scratching the surface.

Cade Frier- 2026’ WR 6’0, 185 lbs- Son of former FSU player Matt Frier and brother of current FSU player Camdon Frier, Cade is a 3-sport athlete with great hands, runs good routes and creates separation. Cade also makes contested catches and has good yards after catch. He had a big 41-yard catch and run to set up a Columbia touchdown.

Vondarius Lane Jr– CB, 2026, 6’0 185lbs-Middleburg transfer, had 51 tackles, 3 Ints as a sophomore. Picked up a Western Kentucky offer after the spring game last week. Athletic, instinctual, and makes plays on the ball. This is a big player to watch at Columbia, a great addition to the Tigers defense.

Kyren Caldwell, 6’1,170lbs, WR, 2027- This 2 Sport Athlete scored in the spring football game, showcasing his speed and ability to make big plays when needed. The connection he has with his quarterback makes Columbia a dangerous receiving team, and he a dangerous receiving threat.

Da’jon Brown-2025 | LB/RB| 6’0 | 200Lbs- Had 307 rushing yards, 11 receiving yards, 318 all purpose yards, 4 touchdowns, 102 tackles, 3 sacks, and 4 pass deflections his junior year. Transferred from Oakleaf, and had an interception on the second play from scrimmage versus Fort White in the spring game. Already making big plays.

Chase Johnson-6’3 ,325lbs, G, 2025- Big body for Columbia who transferred from Oakleaf. Picked up offers from UNC Pembroke and Tuskegee tis spring. Another big addition for Columbia, helping to protect the blind-side of Collins.