Incoming Freshman Profiles: DE Reuben Jones

Name: Reuben Jones

Position: Strong-Side Defensive End

Height/Weight: 6-3, 223

Location: Lakeland, FL

Reuben Jones, a three-star strong-side defensive end from Lakeland, FL, was Jim Harbaugh's first recruitment of the 2015 class. Previously committed to Nebraska, Jones quickly changed his mind when the coaching staff visited him at his high school. Jones was a highly touted recruit, also receiving offers from Michigan State, Duke, Kentucky, Central Florida, and Louisville, among others.

Jones, who is the 44th-ranked DE in his class, recorded 71 tackles and 10 sacks during his senior season.

While these statistics may not jump off the page, Jones' skills have been highly praised by several individuals, including an opposing coach in high school, Grant Redhead.

Said Redhead regarding Jones,

"He doesn't get blown off the ball. He's very explosive and very strong even when getting double teamed. He's going to hold his ground on the line of scrimmage and you are going to have to try and get around him but that's where his quickness comes in. He's tough to handle."

Perhaps what is most noticeable about his game is his toughness and his refusal to give up during a play. Jones competes to the whistle with an intense amount of dedication.

Jones stated that he expects Harbaugh and defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin to play him as both an outside linebacker and a rush defensive end, filling the BUCK position that Durkin utilizes. This versatility will allow him to both rush the passer and drop back into coverage.

Jones has a shot at a starting spot for this upcoming season.

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