The Virginia football team welcomed multiple recruits on visits on Saturday and they witnessed the comeback victory against Washington State. A pair of in-state recruits added to the positive mood with a commitment too. Hampton defensive lineman Gene Jones made the call for the Cavaliers.

Jones is the third commitment in the 2027 class alongside tight end Sean Currie and quarterback Lonnie Andrews III, who also committed on Saturday.

Jones announced his decision on social media.

The 6’4”, 240-pound defensive lineman comes from the storied Hampton High School football program. The Crabbers are regular playoff participants and have won multiple state titles. They are off to a 6-1 start this fall.

The lineman’s commitment came during a visit to Charlottesville for the Washington State game. Jones picked the Wahoos over offers from Virginia Tech, Syracuse, Old Dominion, NC State, and others. UVA made its offer in June and then grabbed the commitment this weekend. He is the first Hampton High commit for Tony Elliott.

Virginia should have a priority on defensive linemen in the 2027 class after taking only one commitment at the position in the 2026 class currently. Jones is the first DL recruit in 2027, joining 2026 pledge JaySean Richardson out of Varina in this two-year window. 2025 recruits Sichan John and Evan Ward (defensive end/edge) are currently on the roster. John has appeared in three games to date. UVA did, of course, take multiple defensive linemen in the transfer portal this offseason as well.

Jones seems to fit the defensive end mold for the Hoos currently, but as a 2027 recruit his future strength and conditioning developments will determine his eventual slot. View Jones’ highlights on his Hudl profile.

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