Utah picked up an oral commitment from Vyncent Jones, a 6-3, 270-pound offensive lineman from Jordan High, for its 2009 recruiting class.

Jones said he visited BYU and Utah and also considered Stanford, but the family ties to Utah were strong enough to lead him to make an early decision. His father, Wayne, played for the Utes from 1978-1981.

"I knew no matter who offered me I wasn't going to pick anyone over the Utes, so I just decided to get it over with," he said of his commitment. "Now I don't have to worry about it and I can just focus on playing my last year."

The Utes are still awaiting word on the future of Benji Kemoeatu out of Kahuku High. He has signed a letter of intent with West Virginia, but never sent it and still is considering the Utes.

He has until April 1 to make a decision. Utah's spring practice begins on March 11.

Junior receiver/running back Elijah Wesson won't participate in spring drills as he continues to recover from ankle surgery. Tatum Drecksel, a sophomore linebacker, also will miss spring ball because of an ankle injury while quarterback Brian Johnson will be limited in his throwing, at least early, as he recovers from recent arthroscopic surgery he had on his throwing shoulder.

lwodraska@sltrib.com