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"It was probably one of the best visits I’ve been on so far": 2026 class five-star edge Anthony Jones credits Hugh Freeze's Auburn
Five-star edge rusher Anthony Jones, from St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile, Alabama, is one of the most promising prospects in the 2026 class. Having visited numerous powerhouse programs, including LSU, Georgia and Florida State, Jones made his sixth visit to Auburn this week. It marked his fourth trip to the Plains this calendar year.
Jones attended Auburn's Big Cat recruiting event, hosted by head coach Hugh Freeze and his staff.
“It was great,” Jones told On3. “It was probably one of the best visits I’ve been on so far. They just showed a lot of love to my family and took care of us.”
Jones spent quality time with Auburn’s edge coach, Josh Aldridge, whom he praised for his hospitality and genuine care. He also interacted with several top 2026 recruits and witnessed three commitments to the Tigers. The atmosphere and the personal touch of the visit stood out to Jones.
“Really, just how they are on a regular day. Because I feel like that’s what really means the most to me, the relationships. How they took time out during the day to come talk to me and stuff.”
On3 ranks Jones as the No. 9 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 2 edge rusher in the 2026 class and the No. 1 recruit in Alabama. 247 Sports lists him as the No. 11 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 1 edge rusher in the class and the No. 1 recruit in Alabama.
Which programs are in the race for Anthony Jones' commitment?
Anthony Jones does not plan to announce his commitment until his senior season, but he has already made sure that Auburn and Alabama are his top two choices.
“I feel like they’re probably both the same right now. They’re in the top three,” Jones told On3. “They’re both close to home. It’s in-state. I could just see myself playing there, and my family being close to them, also.”
According to On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine, Alabama has a 31.1% chance of earning Jones' commitment, which has four-star prospect Dorian Barney committed to the 2026 class.
Jones has already visited Alabama twice this summer. He is also planning to return to the program for their highly anticipated game against the Georgia Bulldogs on September 28.
“At Alabama, I like the coaching staff and how it’s close to home," Jones told On3. "It’s also a great atmosphere there and somewhere that will take care of my family."
Auburn remains a strong contender with a 27.2% chance of earning Jones' commitment.
“With Auburn, the culture is great. It’s close to home too and my family loves being there. I feel like I will fit in well with the defense they run also.”
Auburn’s 2026 class is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation and No. 1 in the SEC, with five prospects already committed.
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