The Recruiting Guy

Jones visit a success, undecided on signing early

Pulaski Academy offensive tackle Luke Jones (left) blocks Little Rock Christian defensive end Jack Mabry (56) during Friday night's game at Joe B. Hatcher stadium in Little Rock. Special to the Democrat-Gazette/JIMMY JONES

The first ever early signing period for NCAA football begins on Wednesday, and ends on Friday, but it’s uncertain whether Arkansas commitment and Pulaski Academy offensive lineman Luke Jones will sign during the period.

He and his parents officially visited the Hogs this weekend. He met with Coach Chad Morris before leaving to go home.

“It went well,” Jones said. “I become more impressed with the coaching staff every time I meet with them. Great guys and even better coaches. Still not sure about Dec. 20.”

Jones, 6-5, 290 pounds made an official visit to Notre Dame last weekend and the Fighting Irish are hoping to flip him. He enjoyed the trip to Fayetteville and seeing fellow commitments.

“It was a fun weekend,” Jones said. “It was nice to see all the recruits again, Isaiah (Nichols), Mike (Sean Michael Flanagan), all those guys. It was fun going out with all the players last night and the night before.”

“Ty Clary was my host. Pretty cool guy and showed me a lot this weekend.”

The traditional dinner at a local restaurant was the highlight of the trip for Jones.

“Definitely the Catfish Hole,” Jones said. “That was awesome. Last night was a great experience.”

Jones said he remains committed to the Hogs.

“I’m still committed to Arkansas right now,” Jones said. “I’m going to go home and talk to my family about it, but as of right now I’m still committed to Arkansas.”

Jones and the Bruins won their fourth straight state title after defeating Little Rock McClellan 37-36 to capture the Class 5A state championship.

“Man, it’s unbelievable to know that all the hard work we’ve put in the last four years paid off,” Jones said. “It’s a great feeling.”

Pulaski Academy Coach Kevin Kelley is known for not punting, but in the state title game the Bruins punted late in the game.

“We did punt, yes,” Jones said. “We punted with a minute and one second left. It went about 18 yards.”

Jones believes Coach Chad Morris’ offense is similar to the one at Pulaski Academy.

“I like explosive offenses, coming from Pulaski Academy where we do a bunch of crazy stuff and try to keep people on their feet,” he said. “Coach Morris has the same idea with that in his offense.”

He enjoyed getting to know Dustin Fry, who was the offensive line coach at SMU.

“He’s really cool,” Jones said. “I like Coach Fry a lot. I think he’ll be a great fit here at Arkansas.”