In the dynamic world of college football, surprises are a common occurrence, and this week’s national signing day has revealed a significant one. Coach Dan Lanning of Oregon has made headlines by securing a commitment from three-star defensive lineman Anthony Jones, who officially announced his decision to join the Ducks on Wednesday morning after an official visit to the campus over the weekend.
Jones is regarded as one of the top remaining prospects in the 2026 recruiting class, making this a noteworthy addition to Oregon's roster. Previously, he had committed to UCLA, but a recent coaching shake-up at the school prompted him to reconsider his options. As a result, both Wisconsin and Oregon identified him as a key target.
To add a twist to the story, it’s essential to note that he shares a name with another highly-ranked player in this class: five-star EDGE Anthony Jones, creating some potential confusion in recruiting circles.
Currently, Rivals ranks Jones as the No. 456 player in their Industry Rankings, placing him just shy of four-star status. However, it’s worth mentioning that 247Sports views him more favorably, categorizing him as a clear four-star talent for 2026.
Earlier in his recruitment, Tennessee also showed interest in Jones, and he even took an official visit to the Volunteers during the summer. Until UCLA's coaching changes, he remained fairly committed to his original choice. This new addition to the Ducks’ roster comes at a crucial time as the team has experienced a notable exodus of defensive linemen transferring away in January.
Although Jones won't be contributing to the team in the upcoming season, he will benefit from learning behind a seasoned group of starters. His anticipated arrival on campus is set for later this summer, where he will have the opportunity to further develop his skills.
