Perris Jones sends message to Virginia fans ahead of rivalry vs. Virginia Tech

Virginia running back Perris Jones wants Cavaliers fans to pack the house when they host Virginia Tech in the Commonwealth Cup on Saturday. Jones, who suffered a scary-looking injury on Nov. 9 against Louisville, sent a video message encouraging Virginia fans to come on the football team’s Twitter account.

Jones began the video sitting in a wheelchair as he donned a Cavaliers t-shirt. However, he stood up and clapped at the end of his message, surely an encouraging sign to Virginia fans. You can view the moment below.

Perris wants fans at Scott Stadium early! Be there!🔸🔹
1.15.41🕊️#UVAStrong | #GoHoos⚔️ pic.twitter.com/5U2XKRYgh3

— Virginia Football (@UVAFootball) November 22, 2023

“I just want to encourage you guys to pack Scott Stadium on Saturday at 3:30,” Jones said in the video. “It’s the Commonwealth Cup. My boys need us riding behind them. Let’s go get a win man.”

Jones is in his sixth year at Virginia, having rushed for 770 yards and four touchdowns in that span. He’s passed his previous career high this season with 393 yards and a pair of scores.

Unfortunately, Jones’ season came to an early end when he suffered a hard hit against the Cardinals. He had to be loaded onto a spine board before being taken to a hospital in Louisville. Thankfully, he regained movement in all of his extremities and appears to be recovering well based on the video.

Since 2004, Virginia has won the Commonwealth Cup only once with a 39-30 victory in 2019. It will hope to change that as it plays for Jones when the Cavaliers kick off against the Hokies at 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday at Scott Stadium.

Perris Jones undergoes spinal surgery, briefly able to walk

Virginia running back Perris Jones was hospitalized following a hit in a game against Louisville on Thursday night, and the sixth-year senior underwent successful spine surgery on Friday.

The Virginia program provided an update on Jones on Twitter.

According to the update, Jones was able to briefly walk on Saturday. He will remain under observation and will be transferred to the Frazier Rehabilitation Institute in Louisville for continued care when his medical team deems it appropriate.

Jones had been staying in the University of Louisville Medical Center for treatment following surgery. On Friday, the Cavaliers Twitter page gave a brief update on the tailback and his status.

“Perris Jones has been transferred from the U of L Medical Center to the Frazier Rehabilitation Institute in Louisville. He will be there for several weeks.”