Cincinnati Football: Jonas Duclona discusses verbal commitment and recent visit

Ja'von Hicks runs on the field before the game against Alabama A&M. Getty Images.
Ja'von Hicks runs on the field before the game against Alabama A&M. Getty Images. /
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Jonas Duclona, 2023 3-star cornerback per 247 Sports, verbally committed to Cincinnati on Saturday evening alongside four other incoming recruits. The Bearcats had a busy weekend with several official visits and six commitments including Duclona taking his second trip to campus within the past two weeks.

“I really like Cincy. I feel as if they’re a great fit for me. Culture wise, weight room wise and just the overall environment of the place,” Duclona revealed to me in a recent interview. “I had a blast on my visit. I’m looking to talk to more of the players to get their opinions on their experience at Cincinnati.”

Cincinnati Football: Jonas Duclona discusses verbal commitment and recent visits

During his junior season at Naples High School, Duclona racked up four interceptions, 10 pass break ups and 38 tackles in 11 games. The 6’0, 175-pound cornerback received offers from Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Louisville and more. Despite having three other visits scheduled this month, Duclona decided to commit early. The Bearcats originally offered him a scholarship on November 18, 2021.

“I’ve been in contact with coach Kerry Coombs and recruiting director Max Stienecker the most. Cincy can be a place I attend for the next four years of my career,” Duclona explained. “Playing with my brother is important but as of right now that’s going to be hard. Cincy hasn’t offered Jason yet.”

Potentially splitting up is another factor to consider in the ongoing recruiting process for the Duclona brothers. Jason is also a 3-star prospect with dynamic athleticism and versatility but the Bearcats haven’t offered him so it remains likely that the Florida products will commit to different programs.

The other five recruits that announced verbal commitments this weekend include defensive back Daeh McCullough, running back Manny Covey, and offensive tackles Joshua Gregory, James Jenkins and Nick Oliveira.