Salina Central’s Jesus Delgado – Defensive Poll Winner – Presented by Salina Tech

By Cooper Chadwick

Salina Central’s senior Jesus Delgado played a very influential role for the Mustangs. As a middle linebacker Delgado earned all-state linebacker and defensive player of the year, runner up 5A defensive player of the year, finished the season with 145 tackles, 21.5 tackles for loss, six sacks, four forced fumbles, two pass break ups, one interception, and two blocked field goals.

“Jesus was a terrific leader on and off the field for us and our program. He is not only one of the best players on the field, but also one of the best workers we have ever had in the weight room, and one of the most positive leaders within our building,” head coach Mark Sandbo said.

One thing that separated Delgado from others was his work ethic and mindset.

“The motivation for the sport in general all came down to the grind. I love the offseason arguably more than in season. I love the adrenaline and excitement from that first kickoff,” Delgado said.

As a senior Delgado was a leader for the Mustangs, and not just only on the field.

“I feel on this team I play a huge role in accountability and a huge hype man on the field. But off the field I really am someone who can help it with the books and film but also someone to talk to,” Delgado said.