5-star EDGE recaps Alabama camp experience: “It’s still the Bama Standard.”

For the first time this year, one of the top rising juniors in the nation made his anticipated return to the University of Alabama. Five-star prospect Anthony “Tank” Jones, out of Mobile (Ala.), journeyed up to Tuscaloosa and laced up his cleats for the program’s first-ever camp under Kalen DeBoer.

Although he’s the No. 1 Class of 2026 prospect in Alabama and camped last year, Jones wanted to showcase his skill set in front of the Crimson Tide’s new staff.

It’s safe to say this was a positive experience for the St. Paul’s Episcopal EDGE prospect.

“It was great meeting the new staff. That was good,” Jones told BamaOnLine. “And just being back up there was great. The winning atmosphere is still there.

“I liked it,” Jones continued. “I feel like I can build a great relationship with Coach C-Rob and [Kane] Wommack. It’s still the Bama Standard and people are buying into Coach DeBoer’s system.”

Jones was previously listed on his recruiting profile as an inside linebacker, and played the position as recently as earlier this year during 7-on-7.

At Thursday’s camp, the 6-foot-4, 240-pounder had an opportunity to compete in front of outside linebackers coach Christian Robinson.

“Wolf, but they said I can grow into a Bandit,” Jones said of what position Alabama has in mind for him. “I feel like I did alright. I know I still have more to work on. Feel like I showcased my ability to be coachable and versatile.”

Jones, the No. 8 overall prospect in the 2026 class regardless of position, enjoyed Robinson’s coaching.

“It was good because he gave me some advice on the little things and was teaching me different things in individual drills,” Jones said of Robinson. “Really, just how cool he is and how we get along stood out. He was very genuine and helpful.”

Once the camp wrapped up, DeBoer spoke to Jones and the other attendees. Bama’s new head coach delivered the following message to Jones during his one-on-one conversation with him.

“He was basically saying choose wherever I feel best at, but I will always have a home at Bama. Also, that I’m a priority for them,” Jones said. “I took it as that they really care about me and want me to be a part of their program and build the 2026 class.”

Elite Class of 2026 linebacker Anthony Jones.

Fresh off the visit, Jones is not exactly sure when he will return to Tuscaloosa. He mentioned another visit in late July as a possibility if he could fit it into his schedule. Jones also wants to get back on campus sometime during the season, likely for the Georgia game on Sept. 28 and the Iron Bowl in November.

Interest in Alabama increased following his first-ever visit to the school with DeBoer at the helm.

“Top three,” said Jones, who previously stated that Bama was in his top five. “Definitely most likely to move up when I visit and build relationships.”

Over the next few weeks, all conversations between him and the Tide will need to be initiated by Jones. Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack is currently his primary point of contact on the staff. When August arrives, college coaches from across the country will be allowed to initiate communication with the highly touted recruit.

Auburn will get Jones on campus this upcoming weekend for a Saturday and Sunday visit.

Want to talk with the BOL staff and also thousands of other Alabama fans about all the latest recruiting intel? CLICK HERE to join daily conversations about the Crimson Tide and much more on the BOL RoundTable.

The post 5-star EDGE recaps Alabama camp experience: “It’s still the Bama Standard.” appeared first on On3.