Anthony Jones, a 5-star EDGE and the top-ranked player in Alabama for the Class of 2026, has drawn attention with a crucial update on his recruitment journey. Known as Tank for his bruising 6’4”, 250-pound frame, Jones has been a prime target for powerhouse programs nationwide.
But his latest revelation has stunned fans in Tuscaloosa: the Alabama Crimson Tide, a perennial recruiting juggernaut, is no longer at the top of his list. Instead, two out-of-state rivals have emerged as the leading program, setting the stage for a dramatic recruiting battle as Jones prepares for official visits.
5-Star EDGE Anthony Jones Shakes Up His Recruitment With New Leaders
Jones, a standout at St. Paul’s Episcopal in Mobile, Alabama, has been on the radar of elite programs for years. According to 247Sports, he was the No. 16 overall prospect in the 2026 class.
On3 Recruits dropped a bombshell report via X detailing Jones’ updated recruitment status after a flurry of impactful spring visits. The report’s graphic by On3 features seven schools: UNC, Oregon, Auburn, LSU, Michigan, Texas A&M, and Alabama. But the real story lies in Jones’ shifting priorities.
5-star EDGE Anthony Jones updates his recruitment after a wave of impactful spring visits✈️
The No. 1 player in Alabama has a commitment timeline in mind👀
More from @ChadSimmons_: https://t.co/EcSe56Xkab pic.twitter.com/God0pTNDA4
— On3 Recruits (@On3Recruits) May 12, 2025
The real story here lies in his shifting priority; Alabama seemed like a natural frontrunner for months. Under head coach Kalen DeBoer, the Crimson Tide has a storied history of dominating in-state recruiting, especially for a talent like him, who grew up just a few hours from Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Alabama’s defensive staff, including linebackers coach Christian Robinson and defensive coordinator Kane Wommack, has built a strong relationship with him, emphasizing his fit in their system. Yet, yesterday’s comments reveal a surprising twist.
While the report from On3 didn’t explicitly state who is currently leading the race, sources suggest that Auburn and North Carolina (UNC) have made the biggest impressions, as appeared in the graphic above. Auburn, Alabama’s in-state rival, has been on a recruiting tear, and he previously named the Tigers in his top three programs after a visit in June last year.
Losing the top player in their state would be a rare miss for the Crimson Tide, but DeBoer’s staff has the experience to pivot and reload. He has a commitment timeline in mind, though he hasn’t shared a specific date.
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On3’s Chad Simmons reported that the 5-star EDGE is gearing up for official visits, which will likely play a big role in his final decision.
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