Scouting Report: Wisconsin Football Commit Dilin Jones

Madison, Wis. – The Wisconsin football program earned a huge win on the recruiting trail by securing a commitment from four-star RB Dilin Jones on Friday.

The Maryland native took to Twitter to announce his commitment.

100% COMMITTED #RBU #Badgers 🦡#OnWisconsin ‼️ @BadgerFootball @CoachFick @CoachSpalding_ pic.twitter.com/cljE0Cp8np

— Dilin Jones (@DilinJones) July 14, 2023

According to the industry-generated 247Sports Composite, Jones is the No. 178 player in the nation, the No. 13 RB, and the No. 5 player in Maryland. Jones became the highest-rated prospect in UW’s 2024 class with his commitment.

The four-star prospect is the third running back commit in the cycle, joining Darrion Dupree and Gideon Ituka. With Jones’ skillset, he could be the number one option come the 2024 season.

Here’s a look at the newest Badger’s game and what stands out.

Wisconsin Football Commit Dilin Jones Scouting Report

Jones was the cherry on top of UW’s running back class for various reasons. Darrion Dupree fills the need for an elusive back with breakaway speed and pass-catching ability, while Gideon Ituka is the tough, hard-nosed short-yardage back. Looking at Jones’ tape, he compliments the other two tailbacks incredibly well.

Coming from a wrestling background, Jones is a tough player to bring down. His toughness flashes on tape with his ability to bounce off tacklers and keep balance after contact. He also isn’t afraid to initiate contact by lowering his pad level and driving his legs.

He doesn’t have ludicrous speed, but his acceleration really stands out. When he hits the second level, he already has a full head of steam and isn’t afraid to take defenders head-on. 

Jones excels at running between the tackles with his great vision, making it easy for him to find a seam and enter the open field. Plus, when he finds the open field, he has the ability to stop on a dime and make men miss with his elusiveness. 

There are some areas to refine in Jones’ game, such as his receiving ability. However, there is some untapped potential there that could make him a standout tailback.

To cap off his scouting report, I just had to share the clip that stood out the most to me. This clip shows exactly what he brings to Wisconsin all in one. 

Dilin Jones… are you serious? #Badgers pic.twitter.com/vZ9KDtltOM

— Jake Maier (@JakeJMaier) July 15, 2023

Jones flashed his elusiveness in the backfield, the quick acceleration, the toughness shown in his stiff arm, and staying up after being met with contact. The tools are all there, and Jones could seamlessly fit the all-purpose back role after the departures of Braelon Allen and Chez Mellusi.

Final Thoughts

Of course, Wisconsin has a history of producing top-of-the-line running back talent, which Jones acknowledged following his commitment.

“I feel like it’s RBU,” Jones told 247Sports.

With his skillset and enormous upside, Jones could be the next standout RB to come out of Madison. There will be a semi-crowded field in his freshman year, but he can rise toward the top of the pecking order if he hones his craft. 

Jones is the Wisconsin football program’s 20th commitment in the 2024 cycle. As it stands, UW holds the No. 18 recruiting class in the country, according to 247Sports. 

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