The St. Augustine City Commission is set to vote next week on a Certificate of Recognition honoring hometown football standout DeMario “Pop” Douglas for his athletic achievements and unwavering commitment to the area that raised him.
Douglas, born in Jacksonville and raised in St. Augustine, is being recognized as a proud product of the local community whose underdog journey from neighborhood fields to the NFL has inspired residents across the city.
Douglas attended Ketterlinus Elementary School and Sebastian Middle School before enrolling at Pedro Menendez High School.
He later transferred to Mandarin High School, where he cemented his legacy as one of Northeast Florida’s most dynamic high school athletes.
Douglas went on to star at Liberty University, graduating after amassing more than 2,000 career receiving yards and earning national recognition for his speed and versatility.
He was selected by the New England Patriots in the 2023 NFL Draft and quickly emerged as a key contributor, leading the team in receiving yards as a rookie.
Douglas and the Patriots advanced to the 2026 Super Bowl, further where he hauled in five catches in front of a massive national audience.
The proclamation also highlights Douglas’ personal tribute to the three women who raised him — his mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, all of St. Augustine — by wearing jersey No. 3 in their honor.
“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,” the proclamation reads.
