03 Sep 2023 501 Football Team 2023: Jalen Dupree – Malvern

Winning back-to-back state titles isn’t easy, but Malvern believes it has the right pieces in place to repeat history. Behind senior running back Jalen Dupree and a senior-laden class, the Leopards enter 2023 as a top contender in Class 4A. 

“We want another state championship,” Dupree said. “We know it won’t be easy, and we are working extra hard as a team to do it again. My goals are to be the best teammate I can be and to lead by example. I believe in my team.” 

“Jalen is a true leader and a coach on the field,” Malvern Head Coach J.D. Plumlee said. “His teammates respect his leadership because he leads by example on and off the field. This season we expect him to lead us on the field, and the ball will be in his hands in crunch time.”

From multiple Player of the Year honors to State Championship MVP, Dupree’s list of accomplishments on the field is endless. 

“I have so many favorite memories,” Dupree said. “From playing in the yard with my friends to winning the state title, I want to be remembered as someone who gave it all every play of every game for my team.” 

With 17 football scholarship offers in tow, the sky’s the limit for Dupree once his senior season is complete.

“Place God first in all things you do,” Dupree said. “If you have a goal, focus and go for it. Work hard and do what it takes to be the best.”