Mizzou freshman Jones receives heart transplant, recovering in hospital

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  Alex ScarboroughOct 8, 2026, 09:10 AM ET

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  • Covers the SEC.
  • Joined ESPN in 2012.
  • Graduate of Auburn University.

Missouri offensive lineman Johnnie "DJ" Jones, who was hospitalized in Florida while awaiting a heart transplant, received the vital organ on Wednesday night.

According to a statement released Thursday by Missouri coach Eliah Drinkwitz, the surgery went well and Jones is recovering.

Jones' heart issue was detected by the team's medical staff this summer during routine testing of freshmen. Jones was monitored for a couple of weeks before being sent to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, where the severity of his issue was discovered.

Last week, an emotional Drinkwitz revealed Jones' condition and place on the heart transplant list. He said Jones "does need help in a hurry."

"We are incredibly grateful for the medical team who cared for DJ and for the donor and donor family whose extraordinary gift made this possible," Drinkwitz wrote Thursday. "Please continue to keep DJ, his family, the donor family, and his caregivers in your prayers as he begins the recovery process.

"We are so thankful for the incredible prayers and support from the entire Mizzou Family. We will continue to update you when we can."

Jones, a 6-foot-6, 315 pound freshman from Florida, was a top offensive line prospect coming out of Venice High School. He ranked 212th on the ESPN 300.