Catalon Calls the Shots: Mizzou’s Defensive Maestro Returns

Jalen Catalon isn’t new to SEC Saturdays—but his second act at Missouri might just be the most important chapter of his career. After transferring in from Texas with injury concerns lingering, some questioned whether Catalon could reclaim the form that once made him an All-SEC performer at Arkansas. But during spring ball in Columbia, those doubts evaporated. Fully healthy and fully locked in, Catalon looked every bit like the hard-hitting, instinctive safety who terrorized quarterbacks and wide receivers back in 2021. Missouri’s defense was already tough last season, but with Catalon quarterbacking the secondary, they could be elite. “He sees the field like a coordinator,” said defensive backs coach Al Pogue. “His football IQ is off the charts.” More than just a thumper, Catalon has embraced a leadership role—guiding younger players like Toriano Pride Jr. and Phillip Roche into confident contributors. And with Missouri boasting one of the SEC’s nastiest front sevens, Catalon’s return allows the defense to disguise coverages and play more aggressively. Opponents may think they’re ready for Mizzou’s scheme—but they haven’t faced it with a healthy Jalen Catalon running the show. This fall, the Tigers might just roar louder than ever.