Cedric “C.J.” Mills’ No. 8 jersey has been hanging in his locker at Jefferson High School, still bearing the battle scars of his final football game. Grass and field paint stains dot the jersey, the result of his hard-hitting style of play in the Dragons 22-21 playoff game loss to Armwood.

That contest on Nov. 17 was the last football game Mills played for Jefferson. The 17-year-old linebacker, who dreamed of playing for the University of Miami, was shot and killed in his driveway on April 25, just days before the Dragons began spring practice.

Tonight, in their Kickoff Classic game against Titusville Astronaut, Jefferson will honor their former player before the start of the game.

Mills’ locker will remain intact throughout the season and his jersey, in addition to a specially-made flag will always have a presence on the Dragons’ sideline.

The Tribune and TBO.com will be following the Dragons football team on and off the field this season. The series titled Jefferson High: All Access begins Wednesday and will focus on five individuals and how they deal with a variety of adverse issues at home, while at the same time trying to win a state championship.