TEMPE — Arizona Cardinals rookie cornerback Elijah Jones had many potential career paths before choosing football.
Growing up in New York, often referred to as the “basketball mecca,” Jones could have followed his brother into Division I basketball. Alternatively, he might have pursued a musical career like his father, DJ Alamo, a founding member of the hip hop group Brand Nubian. Even modeling, given his mother’s background, was a possible path for Jones.
However, Jones was determined to forge his own path. Football became his passion and guiding star.
"It's a blessing."
Arizona Cardinals rookie CB Elijah Jones is already seeing the benefits of having an NFL head coach with a defensive backs background in Jonathan Gannon. #AZCardinals #BirdGang pic.twitter.com/0jOjvD84mW
— Cardinals Corner (@AZCardsCorner) May 10, 2024
“There were always a lot of competitive options,” Jones explained during the Cardinals’ rookie minicamp. “As the youngest of three brothers, I often followed their footsteps and lost many battles until I grew strong enough to hold my own. That experience shaped me throughout life. I wanted to create my own identity. As a temperamental, angry kid, football provided an outlet to channel that energy.”
Now, as a 2024 third-round pick from Boston College, Jones understands the challenge ahead. The Cardinals’ cornerback room is crowded, with two other rookies and several returning players vying for playing time. Jones is eager to prove that players from New York can excel in football too.
“Growing up in New York gave me a unique confidence and swagger,” Jones said. “People often say there’s no football in New York City, but I carry that chip on my shoulder. The team has many defensive backs, and building chemistry with them will be crucial for long-term success.”
Football may be his chosen career, but Jones’ love for music runs deep due to his family’s influence. “Music is in my veins,” he said.
Interestingly, during minicamp, it was offensive lineman Christian Jones, not Elijah, who was in charge of the playlist. Elijah humorously rated Christian’s music selection a “stingy 6,” noting it included both East Coast and West Coast artists, which he felt was contradictory.
“When it’s my turn to DJ, I won’t be getting off,” he laughed.
Jones’ own gameday playlist is eclectic, featuring “Redemption” by Bob Marley, “Let the Beat Build” by Lil Wayne, and tracks by Brand Nubian. His final song before hitting the field is “Earned It” by Chief Keef.
Elijah Jones’ journey is a testament to his determination to carve out a unique path in the world of professional football, while still embracing the rich cultural influences of his upbringing.
