COVINGTON, Ga. — On Feb. 2, Tahjae Mullix signed a scholarship ensuring the continuation of his football career at Western Illinois University. 

Though he relayed his excitement when it became official, Mullix realized how precious this chance is to play college football. 

“I was excited [when signing the scholarship],” Mullix said. “I’ve been thinking about this day for the longest since freshman year. I’m just happy to be in this situation to go somewhere because some people don’t get to have the opportunity that I have.” 

When Mullix put pen to paper, he was surrounded by family members, teammates, coaches and friends. But that wasn’t the only thing close to him sharing the stage. 

During the ceremony, he donned a gold necklace that had a football on it. Mullix’s parents gifted the necklace to him and, upon opening the present on Christmas morning, Mullix knew exactly the right event to wear it at. 

“When I saw what it was, I decided that I would wear it to this ceremony,” Mullix said. “My parents know I love football and how special it is to me.” 

During his senior season, Mullix made an appearance on the All-Defensive team for The Covington News as well as the first team for Region 4-AAAAAAA. 

He compiled 48 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks and had a scoop score in 2021, too. 

Now that his next step is solidified, Mullix appreciates all the support he’s received from fellow teammates and coaches along his journey. But one coach, Josh Skelton, stood out in his mind when thinking about preparing for college. 

“Coach Skelton’s workouts really get you right,” Mullix said. “The best I can do is keep working consistently and take it up a notch.” 

Mullix will graduate from Newton High School in May 2022 and will join the Western Illinois football program beginning in the fall.

He will join Monatarious Reed, a fellow Ram who also signed with Western Illinois.