The Oregon Ducks have bolstered their future defensive lineup with the commitment of five-star recruit Anthony ‘Tank’ Jones for the class of 2026. Jones, a highly regarded edge rusher, is expected to follow in the footsteps of Oregon’s successful NFL-ready players, including current standout Matayo Uiagalelei, who returns for another season in Eugene.
During an appearance on CBS Sports on February 9, 2024, Andrew Ivins, the recruiting director for 247Sports, provided insights into Jones’s playing style. He compared him favorably to Miami Hurricanes star edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., stating, “I love Anthony ‘Tank’ Jones, the edge rusher. I think he’s the closest thing to Miami’s Rueben Bain in this 2026 class. He’s a thick cut individual, but he can rush, crush and close.” Bain, a recipient of the Ted Hendricks Award for the best defensive end in the country, concluded the 2025 season with impressive statistics, including 54 tackles and 9.5 sacks.
The Ducks’ defensive unit will see the return of several key players next season, including Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti on the edges, along with defensive linemen Bear Alexander and A’Mauri Washington. This experienced core is expected to lead the team through the 2026 season before a significant transition occurs as many players will move on to the NFL. Jones has the potential not only to contribute to the rotation in 2026 but also to emerge as a leader for the Oregon defense in 2027.
Jones’s accolades as a five-star recruit are well-deserved. In his senior season at St. Paul’s Episcopal, he recorded 100 tackles, 11 sacks, nine pass breakups, and one forced fumble. His decision to commit to Oregon over prestigious programs such as Alabama, Georgia, Michigan, and Ohio State highlights the Ducks’ growing reputation in college football.
Oregon head coach Dan Lanning expressed enthusiasm about Jones joining the program, emphasizing the strong relationships built during the recruitment process. “Those guys built unbelievable relationships, as well as several other people on our staff,” Lanning said. “And I think this was a great example of a place being a dream school for a player that really came to fruition for Tank and what he’s going to be able to accomplish here. But just again, unbelievable player that said, ‘Hey, I don’t care that it’s not close, right? Like, if this is the place that fits me, that’s where I want to be.’”
Jones’s addition brings youthful energy to the edge rusher position. The Ducks also added Oregon State transfer Bleu Dantzler in the offseason, while redshirt sophomore Elijah Rushing presents another option in the rotation. Freshman Nasir Wyatt, who had a successful debut season, could also play a significant role at either linebacker or edge rusher.
Despite the returning starters, true freshmen have made substantial contributions to the Ducks in the past. Lanning noted the program’s capability in preparing players for immediate action, saying, “As far as getting guys ready to play, I think that’s something we’ve shown that we can do here, and guys can start to embrace the role that they have.” He emphasized that players’ roles can expand as the season progresses, highlighting the potential for Jones to make an impact right away.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming season, the arrival of Anthony ‘Tank’ Jones represents a promising chapter for the Oregon Ducks, reinforcing their commitment to developing elite talent in college football.
