Prediction: Jonathan Epperson set to commit; Will it be Arizona, Oregon, Utah or Washington?

Auburn Riverside (Washington) four-star athlete Jonathan Epperson is set to announce his college commitment next Monday

The date has been set.

Auburn Riverside (Washington) four-star athlete Jonathan Epperson is set to announce his college commitment January 15 at Heir Football Academy.

The 6-foot, 195-pound defensive standout is rated the nation's No. 12 athlete and is down to a final four of Arizona, Oregon, Utah and Washington.

A potential linebacker or safety at the collegiate level, Epperson grew up in a military family and played his youth football primarily in the South.

Still, he's down to an all-West region final four.

Where is he headed?

Prediction: Jonathan Epperson to Arizona Wildcats

Arizona coach Jedd Fisch has done a phenomenal job of turning around the Wildcats thus far in his short tenure, and his program has quickly become a significant threat on the recruiting trail.

In a recent preview discussing his finalists, Epperson had high praise for the direction of the Arizona program.

“Coach Jedd Fisch came in there and turned things around," he said. "He’s done a great job down there. I can really see myself in their defense and I think I really fit into their defense. I got injured this season and missed a couple of games. Some schools backed off, but Arizona stayed the most consistent. It’s more than just football when it comes to Arizona.”

Epperson is not originally from Washington, so the Huskies' national championship game appearance doesn't quite hit home with him the same as Washington stars who grew up in the state. 

And while he likes both Oregon and Utah from a culture perspective, Epperson has had high praise for every facet of Arizona's recruiting approach.

This could shift late, but as it stands, it seems as though the Wildcats have significant momentum with a week to go until "Decision Day." 

Scouting note: Epperson was injured for some of his junior season, but make no mistake he's in the running for the top prospect in the Northwest region.

It's not hard to find believers who think he's a top-150 prospect nationally in the class of 2025. 

It would not be surprising at all to see him jump more than 100 spots in the national rankings (currently No. 313) with a strong and healthy spring and summer camp showing.

Epperson's best football seems to be ahead of him, and his commitment will likely be even more celebrated by Signing Day as his stock continues to mature. 

Junior season highlights