St. Augustine to Honor NFL Standout DeMario “Pop” Douglas with City Recognition
The St. Augustine City Commission is scheduled to vote next week on a Certificate of Recognition honoring hometown football star DeMario “Pop” Douglas, celebrating both his remarkable athletic achievements and his continued dedication to the community where he grew up.
Douglas, who was born in Jacksonville and raised in St. Augustine, is being recognized not only for his success at the highest level of professional football, but also as a symbol of perseverance and hometown pride. His journey from local youth football fields to the NFL has become a powerful source of inspiration for young athletes and families throughout St. Johns County.
From St. Augustine Schools to National Spotlight
Douglas’ roots in St. Augustine run deep. He attended Ketterlinus Elementary School and later Sebastian Middle School, where he first began developing his athletic abilities while growing up in the local community.
He went on to attend Pedro Menendez High School, where he played football before transferring to Mandarin High School in Jacksonville, a move that helped elevate his exposure and athletic development. At Mandarin, Douglas quickly emerged as one of Northeast Florida’s most explosive and versatile players, earning recognition for his speed, agility, and playmaking ability.
His success at the high school level paved the way for collegiate opportunities and marked the beginning of a career that would eventually take him to the national stage.
College Career at Liberty University
Douglas continued his football journey at Liberty University, where he became one of the program’s standout offensive weapons. During his college career, he recorded more than 2,000 receiving yards, consistently demonstrating the speed and versatility that would later define his professional career.
He earned national attention for his dynamic playing style, contributing as both a receiver and return specialist. Douglas graduated from Liberty University as one of the school’s most productive and respected offensive players.
NFL Draft and Breakout with the New England Patriots
Douglas’ dream of playing in the NFL became reality when he was selected by the New England Patriots in the 2023 NFL Draft.
He made an immediate impact during his rookie season, quickly becoming one of the team’s most reliable offensive targets. By the end of his first year, Douglas led the Patriots in receiving yards, a rare accomplishment for a rookie and a testament to his work ethic and talent.
His rapid rise helped solidify his reputation as one of the league’s promising young receivers.
Super Bowl Appearance Elevates His National Profile
Douglas’ career reached another milestone when the Patriots advanced to the 2026 Super Bowl, placing him on one of the biggest stages in sports.
During the championship game, Douglas recorded five receptions, performing in front of millions of viewers nationwide and further establishing himself as a key contributor at the professional level.
His performance marked a significant moment not only for his career but also for the St. Augustine community that watched him grow from a local athlete into an NFL player.
Honoring the Family That Raised Him
The city’s recognition also highlights Douglas’ deep personal connection to his family and hometown.
Douglas wears jersey number 3 as a tribute to the three women who played a central role in raising him:
• His mother
• His grandmother
• His great-grandmother
All three are longtime St. Augustine residents who helped shape his character and supported him throughout his journey.
Their influence remains a defining part of his story and his continued connection to the community.
Giving Back to St. Augustine
Despite his success on the national stage, Douglas has remained closely connected to St. Augustine and continues to give back regularly.
His community involvement includes:
• Hosting youth football camps
• Organizing toy drives
• Supporting back-to-school events
• Providing Thanksgiving turkey giveaways
These efforts reflect his ongoing commitment to inspiring young people in the same community where he grew up.
According to the city’s proclamation:
“DeMario remains deeply committed to his roots, returning home regularly to give back through youth football camps, toy drives, back-to-school initiatives, and turkey giveaways, inspiring the next generation to dream big and give back.”
A Moment of Pride for St. Augustine
The Certificate of Recognition represents more than an athletic honor — it is a celebration of a hometown success story.
Douglas’ journey from St. Augustine schools to the NFL serves as a powerful example of what local students can achieve through dedication and perseverance.
For many residents, his recognition by the city reflects the pride St. Augustine takes in supporting and celebrating its own.
The City Commission’s vote next week is expected to formally acknowledge Douglas’ accomplishments and his lasting impact on the community.
