Jones jumps on board with Razorbacks
Arkansas gained its tenth verbal commitment for the Class of 2018 on Saturday when Little Rock (Ark.) Pulaski Academy offensive lineman Luke Jones went public with his decision.
Jones, 6-4, 290, and his parents arrived in Fayetteville for an unofficial visit Wednesday morning. That's where he decided on the home state Hogs over offers from Arizona State, Oregon, Missouri, Virginia, Iowa State and 12 others.
"It's like a weight lifted off my shoulders," Jones said of his announcement. "I knew I wanted to play at Arkansas when I was younger, I just wasn't sure yet. After the visit I knew I wanted to commit, but I went home with my family and prayed about it, and it was the best decision for me.
The versatile lineman received his offer from Arkansas after an impressive performance at the Trench Hogs Camp on June 18. Since then, Jones became a top target for Arkansas offensive line coach Kurt Anderson and area recruiter Barry Lunney Jr.
"I almost committed the day they offered, but I knew I needed to think about it. It was a big decision for me and I wasn't heavily recruited by them a week before that camp. I wanted to make sure that it was real, and I think I've figured that out.
"I fell in love with the staff and everything they showed me there."
Jones, who has an older brother who attends the UA, made a few trips to The Hill last year before making trips to Mississippi State, Virginia, Arizona State and others this spring.
Jones allowed just two sacks in 507 team passing attempts last season and helped lead the Bruins to another 5A state championship. Along with him for Wednesday's visit was his high school teammate and 2019 four-star tight end Hudson Henry.
Henry is the younger brother of former Arkansas tight end Hunter Henry and current Razorback linebacker Hayden Henry.
Jones' commitment gives the Hogs their fifth in-state addition in this year's class.
Counting blue-shirts from last year's class, 12 of Arkansas' expected 15-16 spots for 2018 have now been accounted for.