Corky Kell & Dave Hunter Classic Team Previews - Rome

The Rome Wolves are aiming to return to the dominant form they displayed during the mid-2010s. While Rome has remained one of the most consistent programs in Georgia, the team hasn’t advanced past the semifinals since its 2017 state championship. However, 2025 feels different, with a roster loaded with elite skill-position talent and one of the deepest underclassman groups in the state. For the first time in several years, the Wolves boast a dynamic group of pass catchers, giving their offense a new level of explosiveness. That, combined with a senior class filled with proven talent and leadership, sets the foundation for success. But what truly sets this team apart is the strength of the 2027, 2028, and 2029 classes, which feature some of the most highly-regarded young players in Georgia.

Mascot: Wolves

County: Floyd

Head Coach: John Reid (2015-25)

Coach’s School Record: 105-24

Coach’s Overall Record: 222-68

2024 Record: 8-3

2024 Region Rank: 1st

2024 Playoff Finish: Second Round (L 35-7, Thomas County Central)

Overall School Record: 276-112-1

State Championships: 2016 (5A), 2017 (5A)

Key Returning Offensive Starters: Jeremy Winston (WR), Nasir Jones (OL), Aidan McPherson (QB)

Key Returning Defensive Starters: Darnell Collins (S), Dash Kinnebrew  (EDGE)

Key Newcomers: Zack Parker (QB), Jyquice McCrary (OL/DL), Kelan Orr (DL), Josh Reynolds (OL)

Offensive Formation: Spread

Defensive Formation: 4-3

School Enrollment: 2,015

The Wolves’ offense will be led by a core of high-end returning players. At the forefront is senior quarterback Aidan McPherson, who returns after guiding Rome to another high-scoring season in 2024. The Wolves averaged 36.5 points per game last season, marking the fourth-straight year they’ve topped the 30-point mark. McPherson’s top target in 2025 will once again be Georgia Tech-commit Jeremy Winston. A true X receiver, the 6-foot-3 Winston brings size, physicality, and polish to a position that hasn’t always been a strength for Rome in recent years. On the offensive line, Coastal Carolina-commit Nasir Jones will anchor the unit. Jones, one of the few seniors up front, will be joined by several underclassmen with elite potential, forming a group that could develop into one of the state’s best.

Rome’s future is already beginning to show itself. Quarterback Zack Parker is a name to watch in the Class of 2029, already attracting high-level college attention. The offensive line adds another phenom in 6-foot-6 freshman Josh Reynolds, while the defensive line will feature freshman Kelan Orr, who brings strength and explosiveness to the trenches. Perhaps the most impactful newcomer though is Jyquice McCrary, a junior transfer from Rockmart. McCrary has the versatility to contribute on either side of the ball and will be an immediate difference-maker.

On defense, Rome has been among the best in the state throughout the John Reid era, and that doesn’t appear likely to change. The Wolves have allowed no more than 14 points per game in each of the last three seasons, and during that stretch, they’ve held 16 opponents under seven points. The 2025 defense will be headlined by Georgia Tech-commit Darnell Collins. At 6-foot-4, 185 pounds, Collins is a traditional safety, playing deep and making consistent open-field tackles. Up front, edge rusher Dash Kinnebrew may be one of the most underrated defenders in Georgia. The 6-foot-1 pass rusher already holds several FCS and Group of Five offers and was highly productive opposite Jaeden Harmon last season. With Harmon now graduated, Kinnebrew is poised to become the leader of the front seven and could have a breakout campaign.

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