UCF reunites with longtime target: Miami DT Artavius Jones signs with Knights
UCF has made a late addition to their transfer portal class, signing Miami defensive tackle Artavius Jones.
Jones was a top target for UCF and defensive tackles coach Kenny Martin in the Class of 2024, coming out of Florida’s Panhandle at Blountstown High School. He visited UCF multiple times during his high school recruitment in 2023, including an official visit for Bounce House Weekend in June.
“Coach Martin is a great coach,” Jones said following that visit. “I talked to some of his players and they all said that… I really had a great time. I love it here. I see myself playing here. Great environment and great people. They’re going to the Big 12 too and that’s a great thing.”
At the time, Jones openly acknowledged UCF as his favorite, but ultimately signed with Miami.
“They’re definitely my top choice,” Jones said then. “I love the program, the education, the coaches and staff. The people are just so amazing, how they treat people — how they treated my family. It was just amazing, to be honest.”
As a senior at Blountstown, Jones recorded 58 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. He was also a multi-sport athlete, competing in basketball and track & field (discus).
Jones spent two seasons at Miami, redshirting in 2024 and playing just 10 total snaps over two years while dealing with injury issues. He was a late entry into the 2026 transfer portal due to the Hurricanes’ participation in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.
Despite limited college experience, Jones brings significant upside and still has three seasons of eligibility remaining. Florida State, Nebraska, Illinois and Mississippi State also pursued him, but Jones ultimately chose UCF because of his long-standing relationship with Martin.
Although the spring semester began two weeks ago, UCF was able to get Jones enrolled. He arrived on campus this week and has already begun classes.
It’s a notable portal pickup for the Knights, who arguably upgraded their defensive tackle room heading into 2026. Presumed starters RJ Jackson Jr. and Horace Lockett both returned, along with reserve Jeffson Lafontant, while UCF added experienced transfers Brad Gurley (EKU), Thomas Collins (Oregon State) and Josh Schell (Tennessee). Jones now gives the room a younger developmental piece with upside.
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