Report: Iowa transfer Charlie Jones to commit to Purdue

Charlie Jones is reportedly staying in the Big Ten after entering the transfer portal.

Jones, a former Iowa return man and wide receiver, is planning to commit to Purdue, according to Gold and Black’s Tom Dienhart. He entered the portal May 25 after turning in a huge 2021 season for Kirk Ferentz and the Hawkeyes.

Jones was the Big Ten Return Specialist of the Year, leading the league with 635 kickoff return yards and 285 punt return yards. He also returned one kickoff for a touchdown, doing so against Illinois in a 33-23 Iowa victory. On offense, Jones had 21 catches for 323 yards and three touchdowns, as well.

Last season was Jones’ second with Iowa after transferring from Buffalo ahead of the 2020 season. He earned first team All-Big Ten honors last season in addition to his Return Specialist of the Year award.

Iowa is coming off a 10-4 record in 2021, including a 7-3 record in Big Ten play. The Hawkeyes appeared in the Cirtus Bowl and fell to Kentucky 20-17.

What Charlie Jones’ addition means for Purdue

Purdue had an interesting year last season. The Boilermakers went 9-4 overall, including victories over No. 2 Iowa and No. 5 Michigan State. They played in the Music City Bowl and defeated Tennessee in an overtime thriller, 48-45.

By bringing in Jones, Jeff Brohm adds to a transfer class that includes former Penn State defensive lineman Cole Brevard. Tyrone Tracy — another former Iowa wide receiver — is also heading to West Lafayette as Brohm and Co. try to replicate last season’s success.

With Tracy, Jones and Auburn transfer Elijah Canion in tow, quarterback Aidan O’Connell could have plenty of weapons to work with after bursting onto the scene last season. It looks like the starting job will be his after Jack Plummer entered the portal and headed to Cal.