Palmerton’s Nelson signs with Nova

Jordan Nelson displayed his ability to adapt on the football field over the course of his four years at Palmerton.

That versatility should help Nelson find his niche at the next level.

On Wednesday, Nelson signed his official letter of intent to continue his athletic and academic careers at Villanova University.

The Bombers’ two-sport star made it official by penning his agreement to attend the Philadelphia-based school, which competes in football at the FCS level.

“I had a gameday visit and I actually have my official visit with them this weekend,” Jordan said. “I had some options, but just seeing the school with the athletics and academics both being top-notch, it was definitely my best choice.”

With numerous schools showing interest in Nelson, it came down to a personal feeling he got when attending Villanova for his game visit.

“The biggest reason for me was just seeing the bond between the players and that’s kind of what I wanted over my next four years of playing to be like.”

While at Palmerton, Nelson put up some impressive statistics.

At the completion of his senior season, the multifaceted threat amassed over 1,000 yards in three statistical categories — an accomplishment that, according to District 11 football statistician, Duke Helm, has never been accomplished before.

Nelson was the first player to rack up over 1,000 yards in rushing (1,072), passing (1,373), and receiving (82 passes for 1,314), for his career.

“Jordan was an awesome athlete who will be remembered for his versatility and athleticism,” Palmerton head football coach, Chris Walkowiak said. “Throughout all of his accomplishments, he was always very selfless and humble. He was just as excited to throw the big block and celebrate with his teammates who may have scored or made the big play.”

He scored a total of 32 touchdowns in his career and threw for 10 more. He also became the program’s top scoring kicker with 66 extra-points and a field goal.

Equally impressive was his performance on the defensive side of the ball.

Nelson finished his career with a program record 450 tackles. He also holds the record for the most tackles in a season with 141 back in his sophomore year.

When asked what career memories mean the most to him, Nelson had a pair.

“There were probably two big moments that stick out for me,” he said. “One was the win over Palisades this year because we had never beaten them in my career, so that was nice. The other was the Wilson catch, when I jumped over a dude for a catch that was a game-winner.”

With Villanova’s campus relatively close to home, Nelson said that it wasn’t a deciding factor, but is was definitely a plus.

Over the past four years, family was crucial to his development and successes, so the accessibility to his school for the near future should allow for that same type of support to continue.

“I definitely want to thank my mom (Michelle), for supporting me a lot over the years. My dad (Donnie) really helped me out with everything and my grandmother (Traci Downing), helped me out with transportation a lot and getting me places,” Nelson said.

As the youngest of three brothers, there were also two more recipients of gratitude — Tre and Jaevon Nelson.

“They both supported me a lot over the years and helped me out in so many ways,” Jordan said. “Tre really helped me out with just trying to be a better person and eventually pushed me to try and be a better player than he was.”

The Villanova coaching staff and fans will now get the benefit of watching Nelson continue to develop as a football player — and If the past is any indication of the future, he will. be providing plenty of highlights in the years to come.