2-star defensive back sets visit

With less than a month until signing day, Illinois would like to add another defensive back to their 2016 class. An offer went out to 2-star cornerback Evan Jones from Conyers (GA) Salem in the Atlanta area.

The 6-foot-2, 185-pound Evans said the Illini staff likes his size and ability to play multiple positions in the defensive backfield. Outside linebackers coach Al Seamonson heads up the recruitment.

“They like my play, are very impressed, and they extended the offer,” Jones said. They believe that I can play both corner and safety. They have been recruiting me since November. Coach Seamonson came my school to see me. It’s a very big offer and I’m excited to receiver it.”

According to Jones Seamonson is selling him on the chance to play in the Big Ten and to see the field early on at Illinois.

“He talked to me about it being a Power 5 schools and the competition. He said I can be a top player in their scheme,” Jones said. “Also, he mentioned they are building something at Illinois and I can be a part of it.”

Now that he has the offer in hand, Jones is set to visit Illinois officially on Jan. 23. He also has visits scheduled to Air Force and Navy.

Though Illinois is the first to extend an offer, Jones is getting other late Power 5 interest as National Signing Day approaches.

“Right now I don’t really have a favorite, but the schools that are recruiting me are Illinois, Maryland, SC, Wake Forest, NC State, Purdue, and some more,” Jones said.

As his college decision comes down to the wire, Evans broke down some things that he’s looking for in a school.

“Academics are very important to me,” he said. “I want to receiver a good degree that I can use for my future. As for the football aspect, I would like to play somewhere where I feel like it’s home, I have a brotherhood with my teammates and my coaches, and just feels like it’s the place for me.”

On film, Jones shows ability to be a stopper in run support, but he says his speed and technique in pass coverage also set him apart.

“I feel like the strengths of my game are my coverage skills and my ball skills,” Jones said. “I tackle very well, but I feel like my ball skills are my top aspect.”