5-star EDGE Anthony ‘Tank’ Jones signs with Oregon

Mobile (Ala.) St. Paul’s Episcopal five-star EDGE Anthony “Tank” Jones has signed with the Oregon Ducks.

The 6-foot-3, 245-pounder has been locked in with the Big Ten program since July 31 and is now a key member of another top-five recruiting class for head coach Dan Lanning in Eugene. Jones is the No. 32 overall prospect and No. 6 EDGE in the 2026 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all major recruiting media companies.

Jones is taking a unique route compared to many of the top stars that’ve come out of the Yellowhammer State in the past. Miami, Texas A&M, Alabama and Auburn all pushed hard for the touted pass-rusher — Jones grew up an Alabama fan — but the Ducks rose to the top late.

He took an official visit, and despite being over 2,000 miles away from home, Jones felt prioritized by the Oregon staff and opted to lock in. He’s visited other programs this fall, but the Ducks never let momentum swing in another direction.

“I have had this feeling about Oregon for a while now, and the relationships were strong, and it just came down to that gut feeling,” Jones told Rivals’ Chad Simmons about his decision. “Coach (Tosh) Lupoi and Coach Lanning have a real history of developing edge guys. They are great defensive coaches and they have a lot of experience. They make me feel like part of the team already.”

No program has more five-stars in its class than Oregon. Jones is one of five in the fold, alongside offensive tackle Immanuel Iheanacho, tight end Kendre’ Harrison, safety Jett Washington and wide receiver Jalen Lott.

Anthony Jones Scouting Summary

Rivals’ Scouting and Rankings Team writes this of Jones as a prospect:

“Powerful, physical EDGE prospect who wins with brute strength and high effort. Measured in at around 6-foot-2.5, 245 pounds with 33.25-inch arms before his senior season. Initially began his career as a linebacker before growing into an EDGE prospect. A productive defender who plays with his hair on fire. Very powerful. Converts speed to power, showing the ability to walk offensive tackles into the backfield. Has a dangerous long arm. Makes hustle plays, running down defenders in backside pursuit. A strong finisher behind the line of scrimmage. Also sees time on offense as a tight end and short-yardage ball-carrier. State champion in the shot put (58-4.5 feet) and discus (161-5 feet) as a junior. Does not possess some of the overwhelming physical traits or elite athleticism of some of his highly rated peers. A high-floor prospect who should enter college with a level of physical development that could have him primed for an early contribution.”