By Hawk Fanatic

IOWA CITY, Iowa – Growing up in Omaha, Darion Jones saw red. Husker fans long have owned Nebraska’s largest city.

Not one to go along with the crowd, Jones rejected the norm. On top of that, he favored a bitter rival in Iowa.

The Class of 2026’s allegiances are being tested on a larger scale these days. The Hawkeyes and Huskers are two of the schools in the running for the rangy cornerback’s commitment.

Jones believes his affinity for Iowa could impact his decision.

“It will because growing up an Iowa fan in Nebraska ain’t that common,” he said. “So, I wanted to be different and like them.”

Having Hawkeyes in the family also drew Jones to the program. It bonded them.

While Iowa has that going for it, the race isn’t over. Nebraska, Iowa State, Minnesota and Kansas State remain in the running. He has official visits scheduled with all five teams.

Jones knows being a fan of a program isn’t the same as playing in it. He’s searching for the best fit now and the place that will best prepare him for the future.

Iowa is involved because he sees it potentially being that place.

“I really like the coaches at Iowa and how they have all been together for a long time, showing that they don’t fire coaches often,” he said.

“They would be a really good fit because of the relationship I built with coach (Phil) Parker and coach (LeVar) Woods. They have sent many people to the league (NFL), and I think I can fit that standard.”

The Hawkeyes played host to Jones for an unofficial visit in late March. That’s when they offered a scholarship.

They’ll try to close the deal during Jones’ official visit in late June.

“I really just wanna communicate with the players and ask them questions. I also want to see the recovery part, education and housing,” he said.

Academics will play a big role in Jones’ decision.

“I want to study Education like my dad and a lot of my other family members,” he said.

Jones produced all over the place as a junior. He caught 43 balls for 776 yards and 11 touchdowns, intercepted eight passes with one being a Pick-6, returned two kicks for scores and a pair of punts for TDs.

Prep Redzone and the On3 Industry Ranking show Jones as the fourth-best ’26 recruit in Nebraska regardless of position. 247 Sports Composite has him second in the state.