Julius Jones Jr. Commits to Notre Dame; “Florida Dame” Takeover Continues With Legacy Recruit
- Brenden Duffy
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
Notre Dame continues their “Florida Dame” run with a big-time commitment from legacy recruit, Julius Jones Jr, announcing his decision on Monday live from The Pat McAfee Show.
Photo via Julius Jones Jr./IG (@juliusjones.jr)
Jones, a consensus four-star prospect, is one of the most sought-after receiver recruits in the country, holding 44 offers, according to 247 Sports. The 2026 Under Armour Next All-American Game selection committed to Notre Dame over Miami, Oregon, and others.
No doubt a factor in his decision was former Notre Dame RB (1999-2003) and Jones’ namesake and father, Julius Jones. After rushing for 1,268 yards and 10 touchdowns as a senior, Jones was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2nd Round of the 2004 NFL Draft. Across eight professional seasons, the former Irish RB rushed for over 5,000 yards and tallied 22 touchdowns.
The elder Jones’ brother also shares an NFL connection, with Thomas, also a former RB, having been the 7th overall selection in the 2000 draft by the Arizona Cardinals. Thomas Jones went on to rush for 10,591 yards and 68 touchdowns across 12 seasons in the NFL.
Notre Dame’s newest commit and member of the Jones family stands at 5-11 and 175 pounds. Being raised in Fort Lauderdale, Jones attends national football powerhouse, St. Thomas Aquinas. This past season, he helped Aquinas to its seventh consecutive state title by posting 876 yards and 14 touchdowns across 58 receptions.
Jones makes a diving one-handed catch in the State Championship
Jones becomes the second WR to join Notre Dame’s 2027 recruiting class. He joins a class that received a commitment from Aquinas teammate and friend, DB Zayden Gamble, on April 25th. Jones’s commitment also marks the Irish’s fourth Florida pledge from the ‘27 class.
Besides a bloodline of NFL stars, including a former star Irish RB, Jones brings a winning mindset, as evidenced by his team’s and his own success at Aquinas. On the field, Jones possesses high-end speed, posting a 10.52 100-meter dash in March. This past season’s film is highlighted by skilled route-running and reliable hands. Jones projects as a versatile slot option with big YAC abilities that will prove valuable for the Notre Dame offense.
Who do you think will be Notre Dame's next commitment?
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