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5-star EDGE Anthony Jones commits to Oregon: 'I see it as a great fit'

5-Star EDGE Anthony Jones Commits to LSU, Bolstering Tigers' Defensive Lineup

In a move that sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting landscape, 5-star EDGE rusher Anthony Jones has officially committed to LSU, choosing the Tigers over a slew of powerhouse programs vying for his talents. The announcement, made via social media on Friday afternoon, marks a significant coup for head coach Brian Kelly and his staff, who have been aggressively rebuilding the program's defensive front after a series of high-profile departures and underwhelming seasons. Jones, widely regarded as one of the premier pass-rush prospects in the 2025 recruiting class, brings a rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism that could transform LSU's defense into a formidable unit in the SEC.

Hailing from Neville High School in Monroe, Louisiana, Jones has been a standout performer since his freshman year, dominating opponents with his explosive first step and relentless motor. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing in at 240 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame for an EDGE defender, with room to add more muscle as he transitions to the college level. His junior season stats speak volumes: 85 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and 12 sacks, numbers that helped lead Neville to a deep playoff run in the Louisiana high school ranks. But it's not just the production that has scouts buzzing; it's his raw potential. Analysts from major recruiting services like 247Sports and Rivals have consistently ranked him as a top-10 overall prospect nationally, with some even placing him in the top five. His ability to bend around the edge, combined with powerful hands and a high football IQ, draws comparisons to elite NFL pass rushers like Myles Garrett or Chase Young during their college days.

Jones's recruitment journey was nothing short of a saga, drawing interest from nearly every blue-blood program in the country. Early on, he received offers from Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, USC, and Texas, among others. The process intensified over the summer, with Jones taking official visits to several campuses. He spent time in Tuscaloosa, where Nick Saban's successor, Kalen DeBoer, pitched the Crimson Tide's storied defensive tradition. Georgia, under Kirby Smart, emphasized their pipeline to the NFL, pointing to recent first-round picks like Travon Walker and Nolan Smith. Ohio State made a strong push, highlighting their success in developing EDGE talent, such as the Bosa brothers and more recently, Jack Sawyer. Even programs like Oregon and Miami entered the fray, offering NIL deals and visions of national championships.

Yet, it was LSU that ultimately won out, and the reasons appear multifaceted. As a Louisiana native, Jones has deep ties to the state, often expressing a desire to stay close to home and represent his community. "I've always dreamed of playing in Death Valley on Saturday nights," Jones said in his commitment video, referencing LSU's iconic Tiger Stadium. "The energy, the fans, the tradition—it's unmatched. Coach Kelly and the staff showed me a clear path to development, and I know I can help bring LSU back to the top." Sources close to the recruitment indicate that LSU's defensive coordinator, Blake Baker, played a pivotal role. Baker, who joined Kelly from Missouri, has a track record of molding elite pass rushers, and he presented Jones with film breakdowns showing how he would fit into the Tigers' 4-3 scheme. Additionally, LSU's aggressive approach to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities likely factored in, with the program boasting one of the most robust collectives in the SEC.

This commitment comes at a crucial time for LSU. The Tigers have struggled defensively in recent years, ranking outside the top 50 in sacks and yards per play allowed last season. With Harold Perkins Jr. anchoring the linebacker corps, adding Jones to the EDGE position creates a dynamic duo that could wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks. Kelly, entering his third year in Baton Rouge, has made recruiting a priority, and landing Jones is his biggest win yet in the 2025 class. It elevates LSU's recruiting ranking, currently sitting in the top 10 nationally, and signals to other prospects that the program is on the rise. "Anthony is a game-changer," Kelly commented in a press release. "His athleticism and work ethic are off the charts. We're thrilled to welcome him to the LSU family and can't wait to see him develop into the star we know he can be."

Beyond the immediate impact, Jones's decision underscores broader trends in college football recruiting. The emphasis on in-state talent has become increasingly important, especially in talent-rich states like Louisiana, where programs like LSU face competition from out-of-state giants. Jones turned down lucrative offers from programs in more glamorous markets, opting instead for the cultural fit and proximity to home. This mirrors choices made by other top Louisiana prospects in recent cycles, such as quarterback Arch Manning (who chose Texas) or running back Trey Holly (who stayed with LSU). It also highlights the growing influence of NIL, as Jones is expected to ink deals that could make him one of the highest-paid freshmen in the country, potentially partnering with local brands in Baton Rouge or national endorsements tied to his rising star power.

Looking ahead, Jones's path at LSU will be closely watched. He plans to enroll early, participating in spring practices to acclimate to the college game. Challenges await: the SEC is a gauntlet, with offensive lines stacked with future pros. But if his high school tape is any indication, Jones has the tools to contribute immediately. Scouts project him as a multi-year starter, with All-SEC honors and even All-American potential by his sophomore season. In an era where pass rushers are premium commodities in the NFL Draft, Jones could follow in the footsteps of LSU greats like Danielle Hunter or Arden Key, both of whom parlayed their Tiger tenures into successful pro careers.

The ripple effects of this commitment extend beyond LSU. For rival programs, it's a missed opportunity. Alabama, in particular, was seen as a frontrunner early on, and losing out on Jones could force them to pivot to other EDGE targets like Zion Grady or Javion Hilson. Georgia, always a recruiting juggernaut, will look to rebound with their deep class, but missing on a top-10 talent stings. On the flip side, LSU's momentum could attract more elite recruits, especially on defense. The Tigers are still in the mix for 5-star defensive tackle DJ Sanders and cornerback DJ Pickett, both of whom have visited Baton Rouge and could follow Jones's lead.

In the grand scheme, Anthony Jones's commitment is more than just a recruiting win—it's a statement. LSU is reclaiming its place among the elite, building a defense capable of competing with the best in the conference. For Jones, it's the start of what promises to be a stellar college career, one that could end with championships and draft buzz. As the 2025 class shapes up, this decision will be remembered as a pivotal moment, not just for the player and the program, but for the evolving dynamics of college football recruiting.

Jones's story is one of perseverance and promise. Growing up in Monroe, he wasn't always the biggest or strongest kid on the field, but his dedication to training—often starting at dawn with speed drills and weight sessions—set him apart. Coaches at Neville rave about his leadership, noting how he mentors younger players and maintains a 3.8 GPA in the classroom. Off the field, Jones is involved in community service, volunteering at local youth camps and speaking at schools about the importance of education alongside athletics. This well-rounded profile made him an attractive recruit not just for his on-field prowess, but for his character.

As he prepares for the next chapter, Jones remains grounded. "This is just the beginning," he told reporters shortly after his announcement. "I've got a lot to prove, and I'm excited to get to work with my new teammates." For LSU fans, the excitement is palpable. After years of inconsistency, the Tigers have a beacon of hope in Anthony Jones, a 5-star talent ready to etch his name into the annals of Death Valley lore.

In wrapping up, it's clear that Jones's commitment isn't isolated—it's part of a larger narrative in the SEC, where recruiting battles often determine national title contenders. With the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams, programs like LSU need difference-makers like Jones to stay competitive. His arrival could be the spark that ignites a defensive renaissance, pushing the Tigers toward SEC championships and beyond. As the recruiting cycle continues, all eyes will be on how Jones integrates and performs, but one thing is certain: the future looks bright for both the player and the program he's chosen to call home. (Word count: 1,248)

Read the Full On3 Article at:
[ https://sports.yahoo.com/article/5-star-edge-anthony-jones-172052503.html ]