DT Artavius Jones discusses powerlifting titles, hoops background: "I'm just a big, athletic guy"

DT Artavius Jones quickly became a favorite of Canes fans when his highlight reel began circulating. He spoke with CanesInSight about his decision to sign with Miami, his athletic background and more:

On his transition to Miami: It’s been amazing. I love it so much. I’m just grateful and blessed to be here. The competition is way better. Playing against the best offensive line in the ACC.

On his athletic background: I’m just big, athletic guy. My first sport was basketball. I thought I was a hooper, but I’m not (laughs). I won states in powerlifting my 11th grade year and my 12th grade year. My max was 450 on bench. Clean and jerks were 340 and snatch was 225.

My tenth grade year I played tight end. That’s what I started as.

On what he’s working on at defensive tackle: Everything, honestly. Right now I’m just raw talent and I’m learning from the guys here. Being around Rueben Bain, what he did as a freshman was incredible. Moten, Josh [Horton], a lot of other guys, Marley Cook, CJ [Clark], just learning from them.

On why he stuck with his Miami commitment: The people, honestly. I just love how they recruited me and treated me. They brought me in and it was just like family. Nothing more, nothing less.

On his weight goals: I’m trying to lose weight now. I came in at 310, but they want me at 300, 295.

On his message to the fans: Thank you for everything you’ve done for me.