JACKSONVILLE, Fla – Long before the NFL spotlight, DeMario “Pop” Douglas and Terrell Jennings were teammates chasing Friday night wins at Mandarin High School.
On Sunday, their journeys converge on football’s biggest stage — the Super Bowl.
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Douglas and Jennings, both Mandarin graduates, are part of a rare Jacksonville connection reaching the pinnacle of professional football. For their former high school coach and their families, the moment is both surreal and deeply personal.
Mandarin head coach Toby Bullock said the talent was evident early, but each player stood out in different ways.
“Terrell in high school was second to none,” Bullock said. “He was huge, a really good athlete. Most kids that size end up playing linebacker or rushing the passer, so for him to be able to run the football like he did — that was pretty unique.”
Douglas, Bullock said, led with consistency and character.
“He never had a bad day,” Bullock said. “He was always in a good mood. He left everything in the parking lot. He never brought outside issues to the field, and that’s what made him a charismatic leader.”
For Douglas’ father, Samuel Walker, the Super Bowl appearance is the result of faith, perseverance and opportunity.
“A lot of emotions,” Walker said. “First, thanking God for the opportunity. A lot of kids don’t even get the chance to make it this far. For him to be blessed to play in the Super Bowl — it’s amazing.”
Walker said Douglas was surrounded by family and community support growing up in Jacksonville, which helped keep him focused and grounded.
“He had a lot of support behind him,” Walker said. “That helped a lot.”
For Terrell Jennings’ mother, LaTonya Nelson, the moment still feels unreal — even if she sensed it coming.
“It’s still surreal and unbelievable that we’re here,” Nelson said. “But I kind of called it. This season reminded me of Pop and Terrell’s junior and senior year at Mandarin.”
Nelson said the road to the NFL was filled with adversity.
“You would never know what he was battling,” she said. “But it was hard work, dedication and trusting God that got us here.”
Bullock said seeing two former players reach the Super Bowl serves as motivation for his current athletes — especially those who may not fit the traditional mold.
“It gives hope,” he said. “I just hope they’re treasuring the moment.”
From Friday night lights in Jacksonville to the Super Bowl spotlight, Douglas and Jennings will appear in Super Bowl LX with the New England Patriots.