Phelon Jones transfers to Alabama

Phelon Jones, former Scout.com four-star defensive back, is transferring to the University of Alabama from LSU. Jones started two games for the Tigers last season, but decided he wanted to play in-state with a better opportunity for playing time.

Phelon Jones will sit out the 2009 season and will have two years of eligibility beginning in 2010.

"I just wanted to go somewhere in-state really, and Alabama was the best fit," Phelon Jones told the Mobile Press-Register. "They're going to have five of their top eight guys leaving next year. Everything's good at LSU, it just wasn't the right fit. I wasn't going to get as much (playing time) as I wanted."

LSU granted Jones' release last Thursday. He met with Alabama head coach Nick Saban Monday and made the decision to transfer to the Crimson Tide.

Jones rated as the No. 13 cornerback in the country by Scout.com as a part of the 2007 class.

As a senior in high school at McGill-Toolen in Mobile, Jones recorded 96 tackles, two interceptions and 1,805 all-purpose yards as a receiver and kick returner.