Here’s a look at the Palo Duro Dons heading into the 2025 football season. Press Pass Sports reporter Lee Baker talks with Rebels head coach Eric Mims about a successful summer for the Dons, the expectations heading into the season and his top talent that includes the versatile Darien Lewis.
2024 resume
Head coach: Eric Mims, fifth year at Palo Duro, 18-22. Fifth year overall.
Record: 5-5 overall, 2-4 in District 2-5A II.
Returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 8
Season opener: vs. Tascosa, 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, at Dick Bivins Stadium.
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Players to watch
Darien Lewis, 6-1, 205-pounds, ATH, Sr.
One of Amarillo’s most high-profile players had a very high-profile summer when he committed to play for the University of North Carolina and future Hall of Fame head coach Bill Belichick. Lewis caught the attention of the Tar Heels with his versatile style of play and his ability to lineup at any position on the field. The Dons leader tallied 18 rushing touchdowns and over 500 yards receiving as a junior last season.
Keima’j Barnes, 5-10, 200-pounds, LB, Sr.
Though he isn’t the biggest on the field, Barnes is a menace to the opponent’s offense with his speed and style of play at the linebacking position. Barnes, a Press Pass Sports linebacker last season, was one of the top players in the Amarillo-area racking up 176 tackles.
Raymond Johnson IV, 5-10, 180-pounds, WR, Jr.
Johnson IV follows in the footsteps of his father, who also touted great speed. The junior gives the Dons another weapon to compliment Lewis and a deep threat to score at any moment. As a sophomore, Johnson caught 22 passes for 397 yards.