Dominic Jones Named 2025 NJCAA DIII Defensive Player of the Year

Charlotte, NC – One linebacker from Hudson Valley Community College emerged as one of the most productive linebackers in the nation. With incredible performances on the field all season long, Dominic Jones has been named the 2025 NJCAA DIII Football Defensive Player of the Year.

Miller, a sophomore from Cassville, New York, led the Vikings with an impressive 101 total tackles, including 56 solo stops, while averaging a dominant 11.2 tackles per game. His relentless pursuit and physical presence in the backfield were highlighted by 4.0 sacks for 22 yards lost. A true defensive leader, Jones consistently elevated the Vikings performance and was a driving force in their success this season.

Hudson Valley head football coach Don Jones had this to say about Dominic: "Dominic has demonstrated tremendous grit, hard work, and fortitude during his two years at Hudson Valley. He has shown great ability not only on the football field but in the classroom as well. Dominic has been a leader within the program, has elevated the standard of his position, and we look forward to seeing what his future has in store for him. It has been our honor to coach him. "

His impact on the Wildcats was unparalleled as he helped Hudson Valley crack the top 5 rankings 5 times and got as high as 3rd. Miller earned a first-team 2025 All-America selection.

Between his two years with Hudson Valley, Jones has made significant improvements from this season to the last.  His total tackles increased by 36 while he more than tripled his total amount of sacks. As Jones opportunities on the field grow, his talent and career will flourish.

2025 Statistics

• Solo tackles: 52
• Assists : 26
• Tackles: 88.0
• Tackles per game: 12.6
• Tackles for loss: 17.5
• Sacks: 3.5      
• Sack yards: 21       

Personal

• Position: Linebacker
• Number: #10
• Class: Sophomore
• Hometown: Cassville, New York
• Hight School: Mount Markham