QUAAAAACK: Anthony Tank Jones picks Oregon over Texas A&M, Alabama

 

Commit Impact: Anthony “Tank” Jones Gives Oregon a Game-Changer off the Edge

Oregon has made a habit of stealing elite prospects late in the cycle, but the commitment of Anthony “Tank” Jones represents something even more impressive—an early, national recruiting win for one of the top defensive players in the country.

Jones, ranked the No. 18 overall prospect and No. 5 EDGE in the nation by Rivals for the 2026 class, gives Dan Lanning and Tosh Lupoi a dominant, college-ready pass rusher with elite production, physical tools, and a relentless motor. At 6-foot-3 and 245 pounds, the Alabama native checks every box for an immediate-impact defender—and his pledge is a testament to Oregon’s growing national footprint and recruiting power in SEC territory.

Landing a player of Jones’ caliber this early in the cycle is a major win for the Ducks, but it’s also just the beginning. Oregon will need to hold off a wave of SEC programs determined to flip the elite EDGE prospect back closer to home. With Alabama and Texas A&M both still pursuing him, the Ducks’ ability to maintain their lead through signing day will be one of the biggest recruiting battles to watch.

Oregon’s staff made Jones a top priority, even after briefly landing a commitment from Richard Wesley—another EDGE prospect who reclassified from the 2027 class to 2026. When Wesley ultimately flipped to Texas, the Ducks ramped up their pursuit of Jones, who they believed offered a higher ceiling and more immediate college readiness. That belief, paired with their consistent relationship-building, made the difference.

Jones’ development over the past three seasons has been nothing short of exceptional. He began his high school career as a hybrid linebacker and receiver before growing into one of the most feared pass rushers in the country. As a junior, he racked up 75 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 20 quarterback hurries, and 2 forced fumbles—all while drawing constant double-teams.

His game is built on more than just athleticism. He plays with an elite motor, advanced hand usage, and the physicality to anchor against the run. He’s not just a pass-rush specialist—he’s a complete defender. And as Jones continues to add polish to his already advanced skillset, the ceiling only gets higher.

For Oregon, his commitment checks multiple boxes. Jones fits the Ducks’ NFL-style scheme as a stand-up EDGE who can also move around the front. With many of the program’s early defensive line signees nearing draft eligibility, Lanning and Lupoi needed to reload with top-tier talent—and they believe Jones can be a cornerstone piece for the next wave of dominance.

Just as important is the mentality Jones brings. He welcomes the challenge of leaving home to grow, develop, and compete in a new environment. He sees Oregon not just as a place to win—but as a place to build something historic. Rather than view the Ducks’ pursuit of a first national championship as a drawback, Jones embraces the opportunity to be part of that breakthrough.

The staff’s connection with Jones has been personal and persistent. From Dan Lanning stopping by his school to Tosh Lupoi laying out a clear development path, the message has been simple: come here, play early, and go to the NFL.

That message resonated. But staying the course with a prospect like Jones will take just as much effort. The SEC isn’t going away—and neither are the high-profile flips that have defined the modern recruiting landscape.

Still, this is a statement win for Oregon. A foundational piece. A blueprint for the kind of battles Lanning and his staff intend to win more often—and earlier—in the years ahead.

Tank Jones isn’t just another addition to the class. He’s the type of player who can anchor a defense, energize a fanbase, and help Oregon take the next step in its championship climb. Now the mission is clear: keep him in the class, and build around him.