Cayden Jones ready to show out at UA Game, talks highly of Alabama's season

joseph-hastingsby:Joseph Hastings•12/30/23•

JosephAHastings

In just over a week, Arden (N.C.) Christ School linebacker Cayden Jones will officially make the move to the University of Alabama.

Ahead of his arrival in Tuscaloosa on Jan. 9, the On300 recruit is going to showcase his skill set at the Under Armour All-America Game in Orlando (Fla.). Next week’s game will take place on Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. Eastern, with ESPN carrying the broadcast.

Jones reported for media day on Friday, and expressed excitement about this final opportunity on the gridiron as a prep prospect.

“I’m hungry,” Jones told BamaOnLine. “I’m really excited. It’s another chance to get to compete with some great guys who I’m close with. I’m just excited to showcase what I’ve got.”

Jones is tabbed by On3 as the No. 19 linebacker in this recruiting cycle. He won the Western Football Conference Athlete of the Year, and was also named one of 12 semifinalists for the Dick Butkus Award back in November.

The 6-foot-4, 225-pounder says he’s a versatile defender on the gridiron.

“I think I bring a little bit of everything,” Jones said. “I can play in the box, I can play outside. Can bang in the middle. I can run. I can cover. Think I can do just a little bit of everything.”

As for what Alabama fans can expect of him these next few days in Orlando and beyond, Jones had the following to say.

“Think you can expect someone who is going to play physical,” Jones said. “Play hard, play smart, and play fast.”

Jones draws inspiration from a couple of players at the NFL and college levels, including a current Bama linebacker.

“As far as looking in the league, Fred Warner is, of course, really good. You’ve got to look at [him],” Jones said. “As far as Alabama, Jihaad Campbell is a great player. He’s got a great motor. He’s always on the ball. Those are definitely two guys I look at for sure.”

Bama’s play this season has stood out to Cayden Jones

Cayden Jones was locked in with Alabama since his commitment in April 2023. He didn’t take any visits elsewhere, and made his way back to Tuscaloosa on four different occasions after joining their 2024 class.

ICYMI: Alabama LB signee reflects on Nick Saban visit, looks ahead to next chapter (On3+)

He didn’t need anymore reassurance about his decision, but Jones has enjoyed watching the Tide this season.

“It’s been motivating, honestly,” Jones said. “Of course, that’s where I’m going. They had that Texas game, which is done and they moved past it. I think they’ve had a great mindset. They just kept going, put their head down, they grinded, and they’ve won some big games. It’s really big. They’re doing great, and I think they’ll continue to do great.”

There’s been a noticeable improvement in the play of Alabama’s inside linebackers in their 2023 campaign. Jones praised position coach Robert Bala, who was officially hired in early March, for the work he’s done with the group.

“I think Coach Bala has done a great job,” Jones said. “I’ve been able to camp with him one time. He knows what he’s talking about. He’s a great coach. I think he pushes them on the field. Think he’s done a really good job of pushing those guys and helping them with their technique. He’s been a really good plus for Alabama.”

Jones also recently spoke with head coach Nick Saban during an in-home visit, with the two talking about Bama’s season and their resiliency.

“His main message was about how the guys stick together,” Jones said. “How it made their relationships and bonds stronger. Just people being down on them. That’s basically his main message: The heart and the chemistry of the team is super strong.”

Jones is looking forward to teaming up with Campbell and other players that he’s built relationships with over the past year. He’s also ready to join forces with his future teammates in the Class of 2024, with two of them — Jaylen Mbakwe and Ryan Williams — joining him in Orlando.

“I’m excited,” Jones said. “I’m excited to go to work with these guys. Learn from them. I’m also excited about this Under Armour Game with Jaylen and Ryan, too.”

In what may be his last interview before arriving on campus, Jones had the following message for Alabama’s fan base.

“Roll Tide. Let’s keep cheering on our boys. And LANK.”

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