2017 Introduction: Ty Jones
Stanford has had plenty of success recruiting the state of Utah in recent years, including the 2017 class. The Cardinal already has a commitment from four-star athlete Sione Lund and is pursuing several other Beehive State standouts, like receiver Ty Jones.
Stanford started recruiting Jones three or four months ago, he estimates, and has made several trips to his high school in the months since. Jones expects Cardinal defensive coordinator and top Utah recruiter Lance Anderson to swing by his high school on Thursday. Anderson and Cardinal receivers/QB coach Tavita Pritchard have been his primary points of contact on Stanford's staff.
Jones hopes to gain more clarity on the specifics of his standing with Stanford during upcoming conversations with the Cardinal.
"They haven't really given me (details on) what's happening next," Jones said. "I'm kind of curious what's going to happen Thursday."
Jones would welcome an offer/increased interest from the Cardinal.
"They're a great school and obviously known when it comes to academics," Jones said. "So interest is all there, I'd love to be recruited by Stanford."
If the Cardinal does offer, Jones would have a strong resource at his high school in former Stanford and NFL offensive lineman Kirk Chambers. Chambers coaches the offensive line at Provo High School.
"He's all for Stanford, so we've talked about it a little bit," Jones said.
"(He's talked about) just what a great place it would be and what makes it different. If I went up on campus it would change me forever. If I get the chance he'd love to take me out there sometime and see what's up."
Washington, BYU and Utah are among the programs that have offered Jones that are under strong consideration. Jones thinks Duke and Boise State are close to offering. Oregon is visiting his high school this spring; Jones thinks there's a strong chance the Ducks offer after evaluating Jones. Colorado has also expressed interest.
At this point, Jones would like to make his college decision sometime next fall before the end of his high school season.
"I don't want to wait until Signing Day, that's for sure," Jones said.
What will factor into Jones' college decision?
"The business program has to be pretty good - I like the business schools at Washington and Stanford," Jones said. "I have to see what the business program is like. Where I fit as far as being comfortable there and the surroundings. And obviously a good football program. Those are probably the top three things I'm looking for."
Jones will likely visit the in-state schools (Utah, BYU, Utah State) over the next few months, including camp trips at several.
Jones has not been to Stanford for a visit, but would consider a trip if the Cardinal's pursuit of him ramps up.
"It will depend on what happens with them," Jones said. "If anything progresses toward maybe an offer I'll probably plan on getting up there."
Jones reports a 3.7 GPA. He'd like to major in marketing.