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Missouri Coach Eli Drinkwitz Fights Back Tears as 18-Year-Old Freshman Needs a Heart Transplant ‘In a Hurry’

Missouri Tigers head coach Eli Drinkwitz shared an emotional update about freshman offensive tackle Johnnie 'DJ' Jones, who was diagnosed with a critical heart condition during routine medical testing. The 18-year-old four-star recruit from Florida was rushed to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville after two weeks of monitoring revealed no improvement, placing him urgently on the heart transplant list.

Drinkwitz, visibly moved during a press conference, described the situation as devastating for Jones and his family, emphasizing the need for immediate support. The team remains by Jones’ side as he awaits a donor heart, with Drinkwitz urging fans to join in prayers for his swift recovery.

Jones, one of Missouri’s top prospects in the 2026 class, had arrived on campus with high expectations before this life-altering health crisis unfolded.

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