TCHS’s Powell Inks Letter of Intent With Rice University

Toombs County High School running back Justin Powell made his college decision official last Wednesday on National Signing Day, signing his letter of intent to play football for Rice University. The standout senior, who has been a centerpiece of the Bulldogs' offense during their historic two-year run, will take his talents to Houston, Texas, to join the Owls in the American Athletic Conference.

Powell has been the driving force behind the Bulldogs' historic success over the last two seasons, powering the team to backto- back State Championship appearances. After leading Toombs County to its first-ever state title in 2024, he followed up with a dominant senior campaign in 2025. Despite the team falling just short of a repeat championship against Worth County this year, Powell’s individual performance was undeniable. He rushed for 1,871 yards and 33 touchdowns this season alone, earning both Region Offensive Player of the Year and GACA Offensive Player of the Year honors. In total, he leaves the program having amassed nearly 3,500 rushing yards and over 60 touchdowns in his final two years.

'I think it is a good school and they have good coaches,' Powell said regarding his commitment. 'They have really been working on their program, they got some good recruits, and I am excited to be a part of it. I want to thank everyone in the community for their support, my teammates for pushing me, my family for being there for me, and the coaches for all they do for us. Rice is also a good academic school so that is a big part of it all too.'

Toombs Head Coach Buddy Martin praised Powell not just for his statistics, but for his character and versatility. 'So proud of him and thankful for him. It is awesome when your best players are also your best people, and it is awesome to see this opportunity for him,' Martin said. 'He had some opportunities to play linebacker at several places, but he really wanted to run the football, and this chance came late in the process, but he got this call and just happy for him. He had a tremendous career here. He is a great student and a great young man, and Rice is getting a good one.'

Rice University is widely recognized as one of the top academic institutions in the country, often drawing comparisons to Ivy League schools for its rigorous standards and research pedigree. On the field, the Owls compete at the highest level of college football in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). By joining Rice, Powell steps into a program known for balancing elite academics with high-level competition, offering him the chance to develop as both a student and an athlete on a national stage.