Breaking: 4-Star EDGE Jackson Ford Commits to Rutgers, Turning Down National Powerhouses
Piscataway, NJ — In a significant recruiting win for Rutgers football, 4-star EDGE rusher Jackson Ford has announced his commitment to the Scarlet Knights, choosing them over several national powerhouses.
Ford, a standout from Malvern Prep in Pennsylvania, is ranked as the No. 199 prospect in the 2026 class according to 247Sports. He had garnered interest from top programs, including Michigan and Penn State, making his decision to commit to Rutgers a notable development in the college football recruiting landscape.
During his recruitment, Ford visited multiple campuses to evaluate his options. He was on campus for Michigan’s 27-24 win over USC on September 21, 2024, which gave him an up-close look at the Wolverines’ defense. Despite these visits, Ford felt a strong connection with Rutgers.([Sportskeeda][2])
“I spoke to a couple position coaches, but not in a formal way, more just catching up. The coach I spoke to the most was \[head] coach \[Greg] Schiano. We spoke for about an hour about how I am a fit for the program, and he would love to coach me,” Ford shared about his experience at Rutgers.
Ford’s commitment is a testament to Rutgers’ growing appeal to top-tier talent. The Scarlet Knights have been making strides in their recruiting efforts, and securing a commitment from a player of Ford’s caliber underscores the program’s upward trajectory.
In addition to his on-field prowess, Ford is known for his leadership qualities and work ethic. His decision to join Rutgers is expected to inspire other recruits to consider the program as a viable destination for developing their talents and pursuing academic excellence.
As Rutgers continues to build its roster with high-caliber players like Ford, the program is poised to make a significant impact in the coming seasons. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these recruiting successes translate into on-field performance.
Ford’s commitment marks a pivotal moment for Rutgers football, signaling the program’s intent to compete at the highest levels and attract top talent from across the nation.
