Carlos Woods is back on the football field, and he’s certainly not holding himself back.

After graduating from Adams County Christian School in 2016, Woods headed to Mississippi College with intentions of playing football. Yet, while the 5-foot-11, 200-pound quarterback sat out last season, he never forgot just where he wanted to be.

“There were always moments after I left high school when I wanted to be playing,” Woods said.  “I was working out during the whole time I wasn’t on the field.”

Woods led ACCS to a state championship game appearance during his junior year in 2014, passing for more than 1,500 yards and 22 touchdowns.

With high hopes of claiming a title in his senior season, the then topped-ranked Rebels fell in the second round of playoffs.

While many viewed the loss as a premature finish to his final year, Woods ended the season passing just shy of 2,000 yards accompanied by 34 touchdowns. He also added an additional four scores on the ground with just under 400 yards rushing.

Woods said the decision to return originates from moments like the ones he experienced at ACCS.

“My motivation to get back on the field comes from playing all my life,” he said.

Woods said he has continued to receive encouragement from a company of friends and family in Natchez — including one who is no longer here.

Woods’ cousin JaDarius Davis — a former football player at Natchez High School — died last summer.

“He always told me to just stick with it and keep playing,” Woods said. “It means a lot, especially now. To this day, he’s never left me. He’s probably looking down on me happy that I’m back.”

Included in Woods’ fan club, he said, is also ACCS football coach David King.

“I talk to him every now and then. He asked how I’m doing, but mostly about school,” Woods said. “He was the best coach. He always had me on the field and off.”

While he isn’t practicing, Woods spends time studying for his courses in electrical engineering. But if he had his choice, he wants nothing but football.

“I want the starting position,” Woods said. “I really don’t know about the other (quarterbacks). Just throw me in the water.

“I’m back. Just be on  the lookout.”