Anthony “Tank” Jones, one of the last uncommitted five-star recruits in the 2026 class, is making his college decision on Thursday's episode of The Pat McAfee Show. Hailing from Mobile, Alabama, the 6-foot-3, 240-pound standout is widely expected to stay in-state and join the Crimson Tide as a key building block. However, a recent report suggests it’s not a done deal just yet.
Jones’ father previously confirmed that a commitment is “coming soon.” Texas A&M, led by coach Mike Elko, has pursued the state’s top prospect relentlessly for over two years and is now awaiting his final choice. Despite Alabama’s strong position, both the Aggies and Oregon remain formidable contenders in the race.
Sources indicate that Texas A&M’s Elko and defensive coordinator Jay Bateman have gone all-in, recruiting Jones more aggressively than anyone. There’s growing confidence in College Station that the Aggies could secure him. With their 2026 recruiting class already ranked in the top six, landing Jones could propel Texas A&M into the top two across major recruiting services.
On Thursday, Top247 edge Anthony "Tank" Jones will announce his commitment on The Pat McAfee Show.
— Tom Loy (@TomLoy247) July 30, 2025
He's down to @AlabamaFTBL , @oregonfootball, and @AggieFootball.
Latest intel, as well as my best guess on where he lands...
VIP Story: https://t.co/oNsJJZ9DkX@247Sports pic.twitter.com/zbz7tMpMUJ
“Just the genuine people and consistency keeps me excited about the Aggies,” Jones has said. "The position coaches are a big reason why Texas A&M is so high on my list and the way Coach Bateman uses the big end position.”
Here’s a scouting report on Jones from 247Sports’ Cooper Petagna.
"Physically imposing pass rusher in possession of a high octane motor that allows him to generate pressures in both a two or three point stance while operating in an odd front. Already north of 230-pounds as a rising senior, Jones displays a collegiate ready frame in conjunction with an explosive lower half that bodes well for his ability to make an impact sooner rather than later at the next level. Although he’s not the most dynamic mover off the edge, the three-sport athlete makes good use of his ability to attack leverage while demonstrating the ability to win with quickness or power at the point of attack. A polished defender with a sneaky athletic profile, Jones appears more geared to add value as a run defender early in his collegiate career while projecting as a high floor 3-4 OLB that can also add situational pass rush ability off the edge in obvious passing downs."
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