By: Tom Williams | June 24, 2025
Clarksdale, MS – The energy was electric as more than 400 kids packed the field for the 4th Annual Jenkins & Gray Football Camp, hosted by NFL stars Elgton Jenkins of the Green Bay Packers and J.T. Gray of the New Orleans Saints. The event, which has grown year after year, drew young athletes from across the region for a day of training, mentorship, and motivation.
Joining Jenkins and Gray were fellow NFL players Rasheed Walker (Green Bay Packers) and Tyre Phillips (Washington Commanders), adding star power and hands-on experience for campers eager to sharpen their skills.
The camp kicked off with an empowering message from motivational speaker Joe Rollins, who challenged the campers to remain focused not just on athletics, but on academics and respecting their parents. “Be a student-athlete, not just an athlete,” he emphasized, setting the tone for a day of growth on and off the field.
Clarksdale High School coaches and players played an instrumental role in organizing and running drills, alongside former CHS and Ole Miss standout Patrick Broomfield. Their leadership helped ensure each camper received personalized attention and encouragement.
Elgton Jenkins’ mother, Delendra Jenkins, reflected on the success of the event. “Each year the camp gets better and better. This was the best one yet—and next year will be even greater,” she said. She extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make the day special, including The Clarksdale Advocate. “The Advocate always comes through when we have an event,” she added.
The camp also featured a competitive 7-on-7 football tournament, with teams from Greenville High, Robert Merritt, Quitman County, Grenada, and Charleston. Clarksdale High took home the championship title, proving their skill and teamwork on their home turf.
Awards were handed out to standout players, and campers were treated to lunch provided by the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity. The Clarksdale High Beta Club volunteered tirelessly throughout the event, assisting with logistics and hospitality.
Several local sponsors helped make the day possible, including:
- Boss Lady4Kids
- Iota Omicron Blues Coty Ques
- Pete’s Hot Wings
- Sweet Magnolia
- Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi
- Prime
Campers also received official Packers and Saints gear, adding excitement and souvenirs to remember the day. Bryant Shaved Ice gave away free snow cones all day, helping everyone beat the Mississippi heat.
In a touching moment, Elgton Jenkins made a special house visit to a young Packers fan with special needs, confined to a wheelchair. Jenkins brought him Packers gear, signed a jersey and coat, and even autographed the wall in his room—making a lifelong memory for the young fan and reminding everyone what this camp is truly about: giving back.
Jenkins and Gray closed the day by thanking all attendees and promising that next year’s camp will be even bigger and better. With their continued commitment to their hometown and youth development, there’s no doubt that it will be.
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