Mesquite HS football team honors Jordan Edwards in season opener
MESQUITE, Texas - Mesquite High School took on Lake Highlands in their first football game of the season. They all played Friday night for the murdered former teammate.
Jordan Edwards was a freshman at Mesquite when now-fired Balch Springs Police Officer Roy Oliver murdered him in 2017.
Fount Rowel was Jordan’s peewee football coach. He says he and others are finding ways to carry Jordan's memory forward.
“He may be gone, but he will not be forgotten,” Rowell said.
Even as Mesquite High School hearts are heavy, Jordan’s presence could be felt at Friday’s football game against Lake Highlands. His initials were on players' helmets. One of Jordan's best friends was wearing his number eleven. Before the game, the teams held a tribute.
Jordan was shot to death last year by Oliver. A jury convicted the former officer of murder this week and sentenced him to 15 years in prison.
Parents from Lake Highlands say it may not have happened there, but they hurt too.
"Anytime there's a loss in the community, the city of Dallas community, there's a loss for us,” said parent Steve Hardin.
The sentiment is a comfort for Mesquite fans. Competitors on the field were united in the stands.
"In all communities, Jordan Edwards is looking down on everyone,” Rowell said. “He was truly an angel."