After a big win for UTEP over Sam Houston yesterday, former Miner running back Aaron Jones joined CBS to reminisce on his time at the University. Jones remains the all-time leading rusher in school history with 4,114 yards, so it’s not hard to fathom that he cherishes his time at the school.
Jones has been out since Week 2, so he took a moment to look back today as he works back to full health.
Vikings Await Jones’ Return
Expectations were high for Jones this season following a 2024 season that was his best from a total yards perspective. His IR designation means that he isn’t eligible to return until next week, and the 3-2 Vikings, who rank in the bottom half of the league in rushing yards per game, could certainly use the talented veteran.
With his focus remaining on getting back to full health and returning to the field, Jones took a few minutes to stroll down memory lane following his alma mater’s second win of the season.
Aaron Jones Reflects on Favorite Moments at UTEP
Jones spent four seasons at UTEP from 2013 to 2016, where he amassed 4,760 yards from scrimmage and 40 total touchdowns. His record-setting run at UTEP served as the launching pad to his NFL career, so understandably, Jones has many fond memories of his collegiate days.
“I would say the memory that stands out the most to me is, getting the opportunity to play in front of my hometown. The same place I went to middle school and high school.”
“Getting the opportunity to play in front of my hometown, the same place that I went to middle school [and] high school.”
-Current Vikings and former UTEP RB, Aaron Jones on his favorite college memory pic.twitter.com/Zpuv0GtnLM
— CBS Sports College Football 🏈 (@CBSSportsCFB) October 15, 2025
Jones spent his high school years playing ball at Burges High School in El Paso, Texas, the same town as UTEP. He came out of Burges as a bit of an under-the-radar recruit, but quickly made a name for himself, which enabled him to find his way into the NFL. Having that cohesiveness throughout his football journey allowed him to become the player he became in Green Bay.
“Also, the opportunity to play with my brother as well was something special,” Jones continued. “Like I said, just playing in front of the hometown, the people who were supporting me while I was coming up, and believed in me, and got to continue to cheer me on, it’s kind of like they were on this journey with me the whole time.”
It’s been an incredible journey to this point for the former UTEP standout, and we all look forward to him getting back out on the field this season and doing what he does best: running the ball.