EAGAN, Minn. — Aaron Jones, Sr., a prominent figure in the Minnesota community, is gearing up for an emotional return to his home state this Sunday. Minnesota is set to face off against Dallas in a highly anticipated game on Sunday Night Football, marking Jones’ first regular-season appearance in Texas since October 2019.
During that memorable game at AT&T Stadium, Jones showcased his athletic prowess by accumulating four rushing touchdowns and amassing 107 yards on 19 carries, leaving a lasting impression on fans and teammates alike. This performance not only solidified his reputation as a top player but also marked the beginning of a quirky game-day tradition that has since become synonymous with his persona: wearing a sombrero.
Laughing, Jones reminisced about the origin of the sombrero tradition. It all started as a playful challenge from his girlfriend, who is of Hispanic descent. This light-hearted challenge quickly evolved into a meaningful representation of Jones’ pride in his roots from El Paso, Texas.
“The first time I wore it, my mom said, ‘Hmm, I think you should keep wearing that sombrero,'” he recounted.
The act of donning the sombrero has grown into an emblem of cultural appreciation rather than appropriation. Rob Rodriguez, a fellow El Paso native and one of Jones’ former college coaches, expressed admiration for the gesture. “That is his culture. Sombreros are all over El Paso. If you go to a restaurant and celebrate birthdays in El Paso, we have mariachis all the time. Mariachis, the culture of the sombrero, it’s all around us,” he said.
Rodriguez highlighted the significance of Jones’ tribute, stating, “So when Aaron started wearing one as an homage to us, an homage to his community and all the people who are still rooting for him… I thought it was really cool and unique. It put a smile on my face.”
As the game day approaches, the anticipation not only centers around Jones’ performance on the field but also the cultural significance he brings through his traditions, a heartfelt acknowledgment of where he comes from and who he represents. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely, eager to see how Jones continues to weave his heritage into his larger narrative as a professional athlete.
