Jaylen Solomon Signs With Barton College, Capping Off a Legendary High School Career
KINSTON, N.C. — Under the bright lights of the Arendell Parrott Academy gym, surrounded by family, teammates and coaches, Jaylen Solomon took pen in hand and signed his National Letter of Intent to play football at Barton College.
It was more than just a signature — it was the culmination of a remarkable journey carved by years of grit, determination and undeniable talent.
A rare three-sport athlete, Solomon has been the heartbeat of Parrott Academy athletics, starring in football, baseball and basketball. But it was on the football field where he truly etched his name into school history. From the moment he joined the varsity team as a freshman, his potential was clear — but no one could have predicted the heights he would eventually reach.
His senior season in 2024 was nothing short of historic. A campaign for the ages. Solomon dominated the gridiron with 193 carries for a staggering 2,463 rushing yards and 37 rushing touchdowns. He added 199 receiving yards and three more scores through the air. To top it off, he returned a punt for a touchdown, setting a single-season school record with an astonishing 41 total touchdowns.
His final numbers as a Patriot speak for themselves: 34 games, 3,601 rushing yards, 50 rushing touchdowns, 812 receiving yards, 10 receiving touchdowns, plus a punt return, kickoff return and even a passing touchdown. A true all-around weapon.
His trophy shelf mirrors his stats. Solomon was named Big 8 First-Team All-Conference three years in a row, NCISAA First-Team All-State as both a junior and senior, and took home the titles of Big 8 Conference Player of the Year and Division Player of the Year in his final season. He was the team’s MVP his junior and senior years and helped lead the Patriots to a state championship during his sophomore season.
Those who know him best say his greatness was never just about numbers.
“He is a football-first guy. He is a hard worker. When your best player is your hardest worker on your team, you’ve got something special — and that’s what we had this year with Jaylen,” said head coach Matt Beaman, reflecting on the legacy his star player leaves behind.
But Solomon’s impact at Parrott Academy extended beyond the gridiron.
“He is a true student-athlete here at Parrott Academy. He plays three sports, a really good student. He is the type of kid that Parrott Academy is — who comes in and does the job in the classroom and on the athletic field. I mean, he is just a true Patriot.”
As he sat at the table on signing day, flanked by those who have walked every step of the journey with him, Solomon was humble and reflective.
“It’s been great ever since freshman year playing JV and varsity to my sophomore year starting with the seniors taking me under their wing. All the coaches — Coach Beaman and Coach Smoke — they have all been great to me and put me in great spots,” he said.
And when asked about the family support that’s fueled his rise, Solomon’s response was filled with gratitude:
“I feel like it’s great. My parents, my sister, my brother and other relatives always come out and show me support every day.”
From a quiet freshman with raw talent to a record-setting senior bound for college football, Jaylen Solomon’s journey is the kind of story that becomes legend in hallways and locker rooms.
And now, a new chapter begins.
