Kevion Moton: A Key Figure in Waukegan Bulldogs’ Rebuilding Journey

Kevion Moton: An Indispensable Player

Kevion Moton, a senior at Waukegan, is more than just a regular presence on the football field. As a two-way mainstay for the Bulldogs, his involvement goes beyond necessity. Waukegan’s roster was severely limited last year, leading to a winless season in 2025. Moton is setting the foundation for a change.

I am not a big talker, but I want my actions to show others how to do things correctly, Moton expressed. His dedication in the offseason has influenced several teammates, potentially preparing them better for the upcoming challenges.

Increased Participation and Team Effort

This season shows significant improvements, with more players participating. First-year coach Darrell Thomas reports that over 40 players now form the team. Moton hopes this increase will bring more success. Despite their 41-12 loss to Niles North in the season opener, they are gearing up to face North Chicago, their first home game.

This year we’ve come together more as a team, and a lot of people have stepped up in coming to practice, Moton noted. Though some backup players are still learning, he is confident they will be competitive soon. The Bulldogs have been struggling since 2016, not winning more than one game in a season.

Striving for Wins and Challenges

Moton expresses a desire for his team to achieve two or three wins and become competitive. Last season’s games often ended with running clocks, indicating early leads by opponents.I want teams to have to practice hard before playing Waukegan, he emphasized.

In their opener, Moton showcased his skills, recording three tackles, two for a loss, and one sack. His physicality in the offensive backfield contributed to the Bulldogs’ 213 rushing yards.

Role and Position Changes

Coach Thomas highlights Moton’s consistent impact over four years, including his contributions on the junior varsity level. His offseason dedication to workouts and weight training is evident, and he now plays different positions to amplify his influence.

Transitioning from linebacker to defensive end, Moton appreciates the action that comes his way, stating,At end, there’s more action there, and they’re more likely to be coming right at you, which I like. His move aligns with his evolving skill set, focusing more on holding positions rather than reading plays.

Training and Influence

Training focused on speed and endurance has paid off for Moton, who attended a speed class with Zion-Benton’s track coach Darnell Rios. He also engaged in running hills and neighborhood laps, noticing enhanced agility in the season’s opening game.

His effort inspires teammates like Jeremiah Hood, a senior middle linebacker. Hood remarks on Moton’s motivational presence, encouraging others to practice and improve. His ability to set the edge aids Hood and the defense in performing better.

The Passion for the Sport

Moton’s commitment reflects his passion for football.There’s no feeling in the world that’s better than being out there with the people I’ve grown up playing with, he conveyed. Moments of crowd applause for a big play create an unmatched sensation.

Reported by Steve Reaven, a freelance journalist.