When coaches other than those representing the University of Florida try to reach out to Gators’ quarterback commit Jalon Jones, his response remains the same.
“They get the same respectful answer – ‘I’m not very interested and I appreciate their time,’ … but I’m all Florida and I don’t pay them no mind,” said Jones.
The 6-foot-3, 205-pound senior from Richmond (Va.) Henrico cites Dan Mullen’s success with his position (in Jones’ own words, “Tim Tebow, Chris Leak, Alex Smith, and Dak Prescott”) as well as “feeling at home” as the reasons for his commitment.
“I know what he does with quarterbacks and how he develops them in college. This is a coach that is going to help me become an NFL-caliber quarterback,” Jones revealed to Inside the Gators.
Beyond what Jones has seen on the field, he also credits the relationship Mullen and Company have formed with him.
“I’ve been close with Coach Mullen and some of his staff since my 10th grade year,” Jones recalled.
However, the relationship between Jones and the Florida football program is becoming more and more of a family affair.
Jones told Inside the Gators that the staff already has a great relationship with his parents. So, when Mullen, Offensive Coordinator John Hevesy, and Quarterbacks Coach Brian Johnson traveled to Richmond for an in-home visit, Jones and his parents extended invitations for others to join in on the fun.
“Coach Mullen and them have met my mom and dad, but they haven’t met my extended family. So, I had my grandma over and some close friends,” said Jones. “It’s a big win for them to have a good relationship with people that I care about.”
Grandma Jones especially seems to fit right in with what Jalon Jones appreciates about the Florida Gators.
“She had a blast! She was on the couch watching football with Coach Hevesy and Coach Johnson. I’m glad that they were comfortable around her and she was comfortable around them.”
The four-star recruit plans to take a trip to Gainesville on December 7th before he is set to sign in December and then enroll in January.
| Service | 247 | ESPN | Rivals |
| Ranking | 89 rating/three-star | #207 | 5.8 rating/four-star |