Targeting the in-state prospects
Alabama signs the best out of California, Hawaii, Texas, Virginia and south Florida. Why not target more in-state players? A question asked on a yearly basis. Alabama has averaged seven players in each of the last four recruiting classes.
2017: LaBryan Ray, Henry Ruggs, Markail Benton, Kendall Randolph. Kyriq McDonald, Chadarius Townsed, Hunter Brannon (blueshirt)
2016: Ben Davis, Mack Wilson, Quinnen Williams, T.J. Simmons, Shawn Jennings, Deonte Brown
2015: Daron Payne, Lester Cotton, Anfernee Jennings, Brandon Kennedy, Keaton Anderson, Desherrius Flowers, Christian Bell (grayshirt)
2014: Marlon Humphrey, Rashaan Evans, Bo Scarbrough, Shaun Dion Hamilton, Keith Holcombe, Josh Casher, Ronnie Clark
So will Alabama sign more or less than seven players from in-state in the 2018 class?
Below are the players (with offers from Alabama) I believe UA has the best chance to sign (at this point):
Justyn Ross, five-star wide receiver from Central High School in Phenix City
- Alabama signed a tremendous WR class in February. UA is in very strong contention for the state's top player. Ross has visited Alabama several times. His close friend, Markail Benton, signed with Alabama.
Coynis Miller, three-star defensive end from Jackson-Olin High School in Birmingham
-Defensive line is a very important position for the Tide in 2018. Miller is one of Alabama's top overall targets. His decision will likely come down to Alabama and Auburn. He grew up an Alabama fan, but has visited Auburn several times.
Kevontae Ruggs, linebacker from Lee High School in Montgomery
-Ruggs was offered by Alabama in January. Yes, he is the younger brother of Alabama signee Henry Ruggs. Alabama still has a lot of interest in him as a linebacker/safety prospect. He is very likely to sign with Alabama.
Jalen Cunningham, defensive tackle from St. Clair County High School
-A monster defensive lineman who should see his stock soar during the spring when he hits the camp circuit. The 6-foot-6, 350-pound lineman attended Alabama's Junior Day on Saturday. Close to making a decision?
Myles Mason, four-star athlete from Pleasant Grove High School
-Mason received an offer from Alabama after his sophomore season. He has been to Tuscaloosa countless times and grew up a big fan. He attended Junior Day on Saturday. The only question: Will Alabama press hard for his commitment?
Seth Williams, Rivals100 wide receiver from Paul W. Bryant High School in Cottondale
-Most are trying to figure out why Williams does not seem to favor Alabama? He grew up an Alabama fan and has visited the campus several times. Trying to create some drama? Is he really leaning to FSU? He returned to UA for Junior Day on Saturday. He spent a lot of time with Coach Locksley. Alabama is back as a very strong contender for the local star.
Andres Fox, three-star defensive end from Mobile Christian
-Fox has seen his stock skyrocket in the last few weeks with several offers including Alabama, Auburn, FSU, Georgia, LSU, USC, to name a few. Fox was at Alabama's Junior Day on Saturday. Alabama appears in the driver's seat for the 6-foot-5, 230-pound lineman. Alabama considers him one of the top five players in the state.
Maurice Robinson, athlete from Murphy High School in Mobile
-Robinson is a dual-threat athlete who stands 6-foot-1, 180-pounds. He has collected offers from Alabama, Florida, LSU, along with a few others. He is recruited as an athlete. He has the ability to play on either side of the ball. He certainly seems like an elite athlete Nick Saban likes to have in the secondary.
Jayln Armour-Davis, four-star cornerback from St. Paul's in Mobile
-Jayln does not have Alabama in his top six. UA has a top priority at the position in this class and has heavy interest in Armour-Davis. There was a time when Rashaan Evans, along with several other prospects, who did not have Alabama in their top six early in the recruiting process.
Other in-state targets to watch throughout the year for potential offers:
Asa Martin, running back from Austin High School in Decatur
Harold Joiner, athlete from Mountain Brook High School
Ladamian Webb, running back from Beauregard High School (Mr. Football)
Tacorrie Russell, athlete from Munford High School
Nathaniel Watson, athlete from Maplesville High School
Kolbi Fuqua, athlete from Cordova High School
Tank Jenkins, offensive guard from Park Crossing High School
Will Bama take any QBs?
Alabama has signed a few pretty good QBs in the last two recruiting classes with Jalen Hurts, Tua Tagovailoa and Mac Jones. Hurts returns as the reigning SEC Offensive Player of the Year, and Tagovailoa and Jones were early enrollees. All will participate in spring practice.
Coach Saban wants to take a QB in every class. Nothing has changed. There was some talk in January after Kiffin left that Alabama was now in on five-star QB Trevor Lawrence. Alabama visited his school in January, but there was never any real confidence from the coaching staff he was on the verge of flipping, re-opening his recruitment or giving strong consideration. Alabama will continue to recruit, and hope to get him on campus for a few visits. For now, he is solid with his commitment to Clemson.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Rivals100 quarterback from Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, is the one player I am hearing Alabama is intrigued with right now. He is certainly a name to watch in the coming months.
Alabama hasn't really gone full speed on any other QB targets at this point. UA will evaluate throughout the spring and summer and more players will start to emerge. UA will invite several QBs in for camp in June. Expect a quarterback in this class.
Five-star RB has great trip to Alabama
Zamir White, five-star running back from Scotland County High School in Laurinburg, North Carolina, returned to Tuscaloosa on Saturday for Junior Day. He has made a few trips to Alabama in the past year, and the visit could not have been any better.
I am sure White still has some reservations about the young talent in the backfield at Alabama, but Bo Scarbrough may leave after this season. Damien Harris will enter his senior season next year. Depth and talent I needed.
Alabama is in White's top four, possibly No.2 behind Georgia. Alabama has closed the gap with the Bulldogs. He had several family members with him including his aunt, uncle and grandmother.
Alabama has a great running back commitment in Dameon Pierce, four-star from Bainbridge High School in Georgia. Alabama wants to add like another back to the class with White at the top of the wish list.
Alabama really likes Harold Joiner from Mountain Brook. He is one who could receive an offer this spring. Asa Martin is another in-state back to keep a close watch in regards to a possible offer.
Tavion Thomas, three-star athlete from Dunbar High School in Dayton, Ohio, is a big athlete, who Alabama is recruiting as a running back.
I think Alabama will wait on Zamir White to make a decision before taking another running back.
More elite WRs on the way?
Alabama had a tremendous haul of pass catchers in the 2017 signing class with Jerry Jeudy, DeVonta Smith, Henry Ruggs and Tyrell Shavers. Alabama has one commitment in 2018 in Xavier Williams, Rivals100 wide receiver from Chaminade High School in Hollywood, Florida. I am actually interested to see if this one sticks throughout the process. He seems to really love Alabama though.
The Tide is making a very strong push for Justyn Ross, five-star from Central High School in Phenix City. He is the No.1 player in Alabama. We know the success Alabama continues to have signing the top player in the state each year. Ross had another great trip to Tuscaloosa on Saturday for Junior Day. I continue to hear Alabama is in great shape.
Seth Williams, Rivals100 wide receiver from Paul W. Bryant High School in Cottondale, Alabama, also returned for Junior Day. He had a great visit. I think he is enjoying the recruiting process. Some believe he is leaning to going out-of-state. It's possibly the case, but I've also been told his family wants him at Alabama.
Alabama has a few stud targets in Jacob Copeland, four-star from Pine Forest High School in Pensacola, and Devon Williams, four-star from Antelope Valley High School in Lancaster, California. Both prospects are considered elite targets for UA, and UA will let them play on either side of the ball.
A few other receivers Alabama really likes is C.J. Moore, Rivals100 from Union High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mark Pope, Rivals100 from Southridge High School in Miami, Tommy Bush, four-star from Clemens High School in Schertz, Texas, and Joshua Moore, four-star from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.
Expect a tight end
Alabama signed a pair of tight ends in February with Major Tennison and Kedrick James. UA also lost one in the 2018 class in Malcolm Epps. Alabama is not likely to pursue Epps any further as I stated when he announced his decommitment.
Judge Culpepper, four-star from Plant High School in Tampa, Florida, attended Junior Day. He has made a few trips to Tuscaloosa. He seems to have a lot of interest in the Crimson Tide. He had a very good visit on Saturday, and spent time with Brian Daboll who may have coached a few good tight ends for the Patriots.
Culpepper is a Florida legacy, so Alabama will have to combat that throughout the process. There are a few other tight ends Alabama really likes and strongly in the mix at this time: Will Mallory, four-star from Providence School in Jacksonville, Florida, and Glenn Beal, three-star from John Curtis in River Ridge, Louisiana.
Alabama is not opposed to signing a JuCo tight end. Dominick Wood-Anderson, from Arizona Western, is at the top of Alabama's wish list. Alabama hopes to get him on campus sometime this spring or early summer.
Small OL group
Alabama will not have a big offensive line class in 2018 after the previous two recruiting classes. Alabama is really only looking to sign around three in this cycle. Four is probably a stretch, but I don't think UA will rule it out just yet.
Alabama and Rivals are on the same page when it comes to who is the best OL in the country. Jackson Carman, five-star from Fairfield High School in Ohio, is at the top of the list. He is a special talent. Many believe he will end up at Ohio State. Bama is in the mix here, and will continue to heavily pursue.
Jameere Salyer, five-star offensive guard from Pace Academy in Atlanta, is another elite player Alabama I interested in signing. Alabama has a long way to go with Salyer. Georgia and Clemson are considered the top two. He also really likes Ohio State.
The player to really watch is Nick Petit-Frere, four-star from Berkeley Prep in Tampa, Florida. Offensive line coach Brent Key is extremely high on this prospect who is actually ranked as a defensive end. I've heard for a while it may come down to Alabama and Florida. He is a definite take for UA.
Alabama extended an offer on Saturday to Emil Ekiyor, four-star offensive guard from Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Michigan commitment had a very good visit to Tuscaloosa with his family. Expect him to return.
A few other names in the mix include Reuben Unije, Rivals100 offensive tackle from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, William Barnes, Rivals100 offensive tackle from Apopka High School in Florida, and Dare Rosenthal, Rivals100 offensive tackle from Ferriday High School in Louisiana.
Numbers needed on DL
I expect Alabama to try and sign at least four defensive linemen in 2018. I mentioned the in-state names above who I believe Alabama has a great chance to sign- Coynis Miller, Jalen Cunningham, and Andres Fox. Cunningham is probably considered more as just a lineman-OL/DL.
The good news (at least for now) there's a lot of targets. It's a deep year on the defensive front. A lot better than 2017. Alabama may miss on a few guys this year, but have a good chance to sign someone equally as talented.
Taron Vincent, five-star defensive tackle from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, is very high on Alabama's wish list. Alabama has some ground to make up with FSU and Ohio State the current leaders.
Xavier Thomas, five-star defensive end from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, is clearly on Alabama's wish list. Alabama will likely get a few more visits from him, but they are on the outside.
Alabama wants to add K.J. Henry, five-star defensive end from West Forsyth High School in Clemmons, North Carolina. Henry has Alabama in his top group. Expect him to return to Tuscaloosa sometime this spring.
Alabama also really likes Max Wright, Rivals100 defensive end from James E. Taylor High School in Katy, Texas, LSU commitment Davin Cotton, four-star defensive tackle from Evangel Christian in Shreveport, Louisiana, and Ron Tatum, three-star defensive end from Putnam City High School in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma,
I can go on for a while on defensive line targets- Michael Thompson, Rivals100 defensive tackle from Parkway North High School in St. Louis, FSU commitment Robert Cooper, four-star defensive tackle from South Gwinnett High School in Snellville, Georgia, Aeneas Hawkins, four-star defensive end from Moeller High School in Cincinnati, and Darnell Jefferies, three-star defensive tackle from Newton High School in Covington, Georgia,
Tyler Friday, Rivals100 defensive end from Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey, New Jersey, Stephon Wynn, Rivals100 defensive end from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida and Rick Sandridge, Rivals100 defensive tackle from Concord High School in North Carolina, are some other elite linemen with interest in Alabama.
Alabama wants to try and sway Micah Parsons, five-star defensive end from Harrisburg High School in Pennsylvania, away from his commitment to Penn State. It's an uphill battle, but he does have some interest in the Crimson Tide.
So as you can tell there are a lot of options, and more players will emerge throughout the year.
Plenty of LB targets
Most are aware of the tremendous linebacker class recently signed by Alabama. UA might try to sign around four linebackers in this year's class with focus at the outside linebacker position. Alabama commitment Jordan Davis, four-star defensive end from Southwind High School in Memphis, Tennessee, is recruited to play outside.
Alabama really likes Teradja Mitchell, Rivals100 linebacker from Bishop Sullivan High School in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The coaching staff considers him an elite player, and at the top of their priorities list. Bama has recruited well in Virginia with landing players like Jonathan Allen and Da'Shawn Hand.
Justin Mascoll, four-star defensive end from South Gwinnett High School in Snellville, Georgia (recruited as OLB), Quay Walker, three-star outside linebacker from Crisp County High School in Cordele, Georgia and Michael Harris, three-star outside linebacker from Tucker High School in Georgia, were at Junior Day. Alabama really likes all of these guys.
JJ Peterson, Rivals100 linebacker from Colquitt County High School in Moultrie, Georgia, is one of Alabama's top inside targets. Alabama also really likes Dax Hollifield, Rivals100 linebacker from Shelby High School in North Carolina, and LSU commitment Micah Baskerville, linebacker from Evangel Christian in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Cameron Latu, four-star defensive end from Olympus High School in Salt Lake City, Utah, has Alabama at the top of his list. He is recruited more so as athlete, but could end up playing linebacker.
Alabama offered Amari Gainer, Rivals100 outside linebacker from Chiles High School in Tallahassee, this week. FSU is considered the favorite.
Jarrell Cherry, four-star defensive end from Carter High School in Dallas, Brenton Cox, four-star defensive end from Miller Grove High School in Lithonia, Georgia, and Tobe Umerah, three-star defensive end from Stratford Academy in Macon, are all recruited as outside linebackers by Alabama. Cherry visited Tuscaloosa in the fall. Cox and Umerah were on campus for Junior Day.
DBs are important in '18
This is another position with a lot of early names floating around. There are several who Alabama really likes, and a lot who can commit at this time.
Tyreke Johnson, five-star safety from Trinity Christian in Jacksonville, Miami commitment Josh Jobe, four-star safety from Columbus High School in Miami, Leon O'Neal, four-star safety from Cypress Springs High School in Cypress, Texas, Gurvan Hall, four-star safety from Palm Beach Lakes High School in West Palm Beach, are all heavily recruited and will be seen by Alabama this spring. A few of these guys also have the ability to play corner.
Isaac Taylor-Stuart, Rivals100 cornerback from St. Augustine High School in San Diego, has high interest in Alabama. LSU commitment Kelvin Jospeh, Rivals100 cornerback from Scotlandville High School in Baton Rouge, has visited Alabama a a few times including the first Junior Day in January. Myles Sims, four-star cornerback from Westlake High School in Atlanta, received an offer from Alabama on Saturday. So these are some key players to watch.
Alabama is on the outside looking in for Patrick Surtain, five-star cornerback from Plantation High School in Florida, and Al Blades, Rivals100 cornerback from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Bama is working hard to get both of these players on campus this spring.
Jalyn Armour-Davis, four-star cornerback from St. Paul's in Mobile, revealed his top six earlier this week. A surprise omission was Alabama. Alabama is recruiting him and considered a take. Alabama believes it will get back in the race.
Brennan Eagles, Rivals100 wide receiver from Alief Taylor High School in Houston, Texas, Gerry Bohannon, athlete from Earle High School in Arkansas, are a few other athletes Alabama really likes, who can play on either side of the ball.
Any specialists?
Yes, Alabama is likely to take a punter. No decision regarding an offer until the special teams camp in June.
Is Alabama in the market for any grad transfers?
No, not at this time. No scholarship available.
How are the 16 early enrollees doing since their arrival?
Crazy to think 16 members of Alabama's signing class are in Tuscaloosa. I've heard all are doing really well especially Najee Harris. Alabama has also been impressed with tight end Major Tennison.
All 16 players have the ability to contribute or at least provide depth to the team this fall. There is not one freshman on campus the staff thinks "definitely won't play" this year.
New recruiting territories
OC Brian Daboll: Tuscaloosa, Huntsville, Northeast
WR Coach Mike Locksley: Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa), DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia area)
TE Joe Pannunzio: South Florida area, Jackson, Mississippi to Memphis
OLB Tosh Lupoi: Will take over Napier's area in Dallas, a little bit of Houston (in addition to his other areas)
DL Karl Dunbar: Will take over Arkansas, Monroe, Louisiana (in addition to his other areas)
Alabama signs the best out of California, Hawaii, Texas, Virginia and south Florida. Why not target more in-state players? A question asked on a yearly basis. Alabama has averaged seven players in each of the last four recruiting classes.
2017: LaBryan Ray, Henry Ruggs, Markail Benton, Kendall Randolph. Kyriq McDonald, Chadarius Townsed, Hunter Brannon (blueshirt)
2016: Ben Davis, Mack Wilson, Quinnen Williams, T.J. Simmons, Shawn Jennings, Deonte Brown
2015: Daron Payne, Lester Cotton, Anfernee Jennings, Brandon Kennedy, Keaton Anderson, Desherrius Flowers, Christian Bell (grayshirt)
2014: Marlon Humphrey, Rashaan Evans, Bo Scarbrough, Shaun Dion Hamilton, Keith Holcombe, Josh Casher, Ronnie Clark
So will Alabama sign more or less than seven players from in-state in the 2018 class?
Below are the players (with offers from Alabama) I believe UA has the best chance to sign (at this point):
Justyn Ross, five-star wide receiver from Central High School in Phenix City
- Alabama signed a tremendous WR class in February. UA is in very strong contention for the state's top player. Ross has visited Alabama several times. His close friend, Markail Benton, signed with Alabama.
Coynis Miller, three-star defensive end from Jackson-Olin High School in Birmingham
-Defensive line is a very important position for the Tide in 2018. Miller is one of Alabama's top overall targets. His decision will likely come down to Alabama and Auburn. He grew up an Alabama fan, but has visited Auburn several times.
Kevontae Ruggs, linebacker from Lee High School in Montgomery
-Ruggs was offered by Alabama in January. Yes, he is the younger brother of Alabama signee Henry Ruggs. Alabama still has a lot of interest in him as a linebacker/safety prospect. He is very likely to sign with Alabama.
Jalen Cunningham, defensive tackle from St. Clair County High School
-A monster defensive lineman who should see his stock soar during the spring when he hits the camp circuit. The 6-foot-6, 350-pound lineman attended Alabama's Junior Day on Saturday. Close to making a decision?
Myles Mason, four-star athlete from Pleasant Grove High School
-Mason received an offer from Alabama after his sophomore season. He has been to Tuscaloosa countless times and grew up a big fan. He attended Junior Day on Saturday. The only question: Will Alabama press hard for his commitment?
Seth Williams, Rivals100 wide receiver from Paul W. Bryant High School in Cottondale
-Most are trying to figure out why Williams does not seem to favor Alabama? He grew up an Alabama fan and has visited the campus several times. Trying to create some drama? Is he really leaning to FSU? He returned to UA for Junior Day on Saturday. He spent a lot of time with Coach Locksley. Alabama is back as a very strong contender for the local star.
Andres Fox, three-star defensive end from Mobile Christian
-Fox has seen his stock skyrocket in the last few weeks with several offers including Alabama, Auburn, FSU, Georgia, LSU, USC, to name a few. Fox was at Alabama's Junior Day on Saturday. Alabama appears in the driver's seat for the 6-foot-5, 230-pound lineman. Alabama considers him one of the top five players in the state.
Maurice Robinson, athlete from Murphy High School in Mobile
-Robinson is a dual-threat athlete who stands 6-foot-1, 180-pounds. He has collected offers from Alabama, Florida, LSU, along with a few others. He is recruited as an athlete. He has the ability to play on either side of the ball. He certainly seems like an elite athlete Nick Saban likes to have in the secondary.
Jayln Armour-Davis, four-star cornerback from St. Paul's in Mobile
-Jayln does not have Alabama in his top six. UA has a top priority at the position in this class and has heavy interest in Armour-Davis. There was a time when Rashaan Evans, along with several other prospects, who did not have Alabama in their top six early in the recruiting process.
Other in-state targets to watch throughout the year for potential offers:
Asa Martin, running back from Austin High School in Decatur
Harold Joiner, athlete from Mountain Brook High School
Ladamian Webb, running back from Beauregard High School (Mr. Football)
Tacorrie Russell, athlete from Munford High School
Nathaniel Watson, athlete from Maplesville High School
Kolbi Fuqua, athlete from Cordova High School
Tank Jenkins, offensive guard from Park Crossing High School
Will Bama take any QBs?
Alabama has signed a few pretty good QBs in the last two recruiting classes with Jalen Hurts, Tua Tagovailoa and Mac Jones. Hurts returns as the reigning SEC Offensive Player of the Year, and Tagovailoa and Jones were early enrollees. All will participate in spring practice.
Coach Saban wants to take a QB in every class. Nothing has changed. There was some talk in January after Kiffin left that Alabama was now in on five-star QB Trevor Lawrence. Alabama visited his school in January, but there was never any real confidence from the coaching staff he was on the verge of flipping, re-opening his recruitment or giving strong consideration. Alabama will continue to recruit, and hope to get him on campus for a few visits. For now, he is solid with his commitment to Clemson.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Rivals100 quarterback from Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, is the one player I am hearing Alabama is intrigued with right now. He is certainly a name to watch in the coming months.
Alabama hasn't really gone full speed on any other QB targets at this point. UA will evaluate throughout the spring and summer and more players will start to emerge. UA will invite several QBs in for camp in June. Expect a quarterback in this class.
Five-star RB has great trip to Alabama
Zamir White, five-star running back from Scotland County High School in Laurinburg, North Carolina, returned to Tuscaloosa on Saturday for Junior Day. He has made a few trips to Alabama in the past year, and the visit could not have been any better.
I am sure White still has some reservations about the young talent in the backfield at Alabama, but Bo Scarbrough may leave after this season. Damien Harris will enter his senior season next year. Depth and talent I needed.
Alabama is in White's top four, possibly No.2 behind Georgia. Alabama has closed the gap with the Bulldogs. He had several family members with him including his aunt, uncle and grandmother.
Alabama has a great running back commitment in Dameon Pierce, four-star from Bainbridge High School in Georgia. Alabama wants to add like another back to the class with White at the top of the wish list.
Alabama really likes Harold Joiner from Mountain Brook. He is one who could receive an offer this spring. Asa Martin is another in-state back to keep a close watch in regards to a possible offer.
Tavion Thomas, three-star athlete from Dunbar High School in Dayton, Ohio, is a big athlete, who Alabama is recruiting as a running back.
I think Alabama will wait on Zamir White to make a decision before taking another running back.
More elite WRs on the way?
Alabama had a tremendous haul of pass catchers in the 2017 signing class with Jerry Jeudy, DeVonta Smith, Henry Ruggs and Tyrell Shavers. Alabama has one commitment in 2018 in Xavier Williams, Rivals100 wide receiver from Chaminade High School in Hollywood, Florida. I am actually interested to see if this one sticks throughout the process. He seems to really love Alabama though.
The Tide is making a very strong push for Justyn Ross, five-star from Central High School in Phenix City. He is the No.1 player in Alabama. We know the success Alabama continues to have signing the top player in the state each year. Ross had another great trip to Tuscaloosa on Saturday for Junior Day. I continue to hear Alabama is in great shape.
Seth Williams, Rivals100 wide receiver from Paul W. Bryant High School in Cottondale, Alabama, also returned for Junior Day. He had a great visit. I think he is enjoying the recruiting process. Some believe he is leaning to going out-of-state. It's possibly the case, but I've also been told his family wants him at Alabama.
Alabama has a few stud targets in Jacob Copeland, four-star from Pine Forest High School in Pensacola, and Devon Williams, four-star from Antelope Valley High School in Lancaster, California. Both prospects are considered elite targets for UA, and UA will let them play on either side of the ball.
A few other receivers Alabama really likes is C.J. Moore, Rivals100 from Union High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mark Pope, Rivals100 from Southridge High School in Miami, Tommy Bush, four-star from Clemens High School in Schertz, Texas, and Joshua Moore, four-star from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.
Expect a tight end
Alabama signed a pair of tight ends in February with Major Tennison and Kedrick James. UA also lost one in the 2018 class in Malcolm Epps. Alabama is not likely to pursue Epps any further as I stated when he announced his decommitment.
Judge Culpepper, four-star from Plant High School in Tampa, Florida, attended Junior Day. He has made a few trips to Tuscaloosa. He seems to have a lot of interest in the Crimson Tide. He had a very good visit on Saturday, and spent time with Brian Daboll who may have coached a few good tight ends for the Patriots.
Culpepper is a Florida legacy, so Alabama will have to combat that throughout the process. There are a few other tight ends Alabama really likes and strongly in the mix at this time: Will Mallory, four-star from Providence School in Jacksonville, Florida, and Glenn Beal, three-star from John Curtis in River Ridge, Louisiana.
Alabama is not opposed to signing a JuCo tight end. Dominick Wood-Anderson, from Arizona Western, is at the top of Alabama's wish list. Alabama hopes to get him on campus sometime this spring or early summer.
Small OL group
Alabama will not have a big offensive line class in 2018 after the previous two recruiting classes. Alabama is really only looking to sign around three in this cycle. Four is probably a stretch, but I don't think UA will rule it out just yet.
Alabama and Rivals are on the same page when it comes to who is the best OL in the country. Jackson Carman, five-star from Fairfield High School in Ohio, is at the top of the list. He is a special talent. Many believe he will end up at Ohio State. Bama is in the mix here, and will continue to heavily pursue.
Jameere Salyer, five-star offensive guard from Pace Academy in Atlanta, is another elite player Alabama I interested in signing. Alabama has a long way to go with Salyer. Georgia and Clemson are considered the top two. He also really likes Ohio State.
The player to really watch is Nick Petit-Frere, four-star from Berkeley Prep in Tampa, Florida. Offensive line coach Brent Key is extremely high on this prospect who is actually ranked as a defensive end. I've heard for a while it may come down to Alabama and Florida. He is a definite take for UA.
Alabama extended an offer on Saturday to Emil Ekiyor, four-star offensive guard from Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Michigan commitment had a very good visit to Tuscaloosa with his family. Expect him to return.
A few other names in the mix include Reuben Unije, Rivals100 offensive tackle from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, William Barnes, Rivals100 offensive tackle from Apopka High School in Florida, and Dare Rosenthal, Rivals100 offensive tackle from Ferriday High School in Louisiana.
Numbers needed on DL
I expect Alabama to try and sign at least four defensive linemen in 2018. I mentioned the in-state names above who I believe Alabama has a great chance to sign- Coynis Miller, Jalen Cunningham, and Andres Fox. Cunningham is probably considered more as just a lineman-OL/DL.
The good news (at least for now) there's a lot of targets. It's a deep year on the defensive front. A lot better than 2017. Alabama may miss on a few guys this year, but have a good chance to sign someone equally as talented.
Taron Vincent, five-star defensive tackle from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, is very high on Alabama's wish list. Alabama has some ground to make up with FSU and Ohio State the current leaders.
Xavier Thomas, five-star defensive end from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, is clearly on Alabama's wish list. Alabama will likely get a few more visits from him, but they are on the outside.
Alabama wants to add K.J. Henry, five-star defensive end from West Forsyth High School in Clemmons, North Carolina. Henry has Alabama in his top group. Expect him to return to Tuscaloosa sometime this spring.
Alabama also really likes Max Wright, Rivals100 defensive end from James E. Taylor High School in Katy, Texas, LSU commitment Davin Cotton, four-star defensive tackle from Evangel Christian in Shreveport, Louisiana, and Ron Tatum, three-star defensive end from Putnam City High School in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma,
I can go on for a while on defensive line targets- Michael Thompson, Rivals100 defensive tackle from Parkway North High School in St. Louis, FSU commitment Robert Cooper, four-star defensive tackle from South Gwinnett High School in Snellville, Georgia, Aeneas Hawkins, four-star defensive end from Moeller High School in Cincinnati, and Darnell Jefferies, three-star defensive tackle from Newton High School in Covington, Georgia,
Tyler Friday, Rivals100 defensive end from Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey, New Jersey, Stephon Wynn, Rivals100 defensive end from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida and Rick Sandridge, Rivals100 defensive tackle from Concord High School in North Carolina, are some other elite linemen with interest in Alabama.
Alabama wants to try and sway Micah Parsons, five-star defensive end from Harrisburg High School in Pennsylvania, away from his commitment to Penn State. It's an uphill battle, but he does have some interest in the Crimson Tide.
So as you can tell there are a lot of options, and more players will emerge throughout the year.
Plenty of LB targets
Most are aware of the tremendous linebacker class recently signed by Alabama. UA might try to sign around four linebackers in this year's class with focus at the outside linebacker position. Alabama commitment Jordan Davis, four-star defensive end from Southwind High School in Memphis, Tennessee, is recruited to play outside.
Alabama really likes Teradja Mitchell, Rivals100 linebacker from Bishop Sullivan High School in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The coaching staff considers him an elite player, and at the top of their priorities list. Bama has recruited well in Virginia with landing players like Jonathan Allen and Da'Shawn Hand.
Justin Mascoll, four-star defensive end from South Gwinnett High School in Snellville, Georgia (recruited as OLB), Quay Walker, three-star outside linebacker from Crisp County High School in Cordele, Georgia and Michael Harris, three-star outside linebacker from Tucker High School in Georgia, were at Junior Day. Alabama really likes all of these guys.
JJ Peterson, Rivals100 linebacker from Colquitt County High School in Moultrie, Georgia, is one of Alabama's top inside targets. Alabama also really likes Dax Hollifield, Rivals100 linebacker from Shelby High School in North Carolina, and LSU commitment Micah Baskerville, linebacker from Evangel Christian in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Cameron Latu, four-star defensive end from Olympus High School in Salt Lake City, Utah, has Alabama at the top of his list. He is recruited more so as athlete, but could end up playing linebacker.
Alabama offered Amari Gainer, Rivals100 outside linebacker from Chiles High School in Tallahassee, this week. FSU is considered the favorite.
Jarrell Cherry, four-star defensive end from Carter High School in Dallas, Brenton Cox, four-star defensive end from Miller Grove High School in Lithonia, Georgia, and Tobe Umerah, three-star defensive end from Stratford Academy in Macon, are all recruited as outside linebackers by Alabama. Cherry visited Tuscaloosa in the fall. Cox and Umerah were on campus for Junior Day.
DBs are important in '18
This is another position with a lot of early names floating around. There are several who Alabama really likes, and a lot who can commit at this time.
Tyreke Johnson, five-star safety from Trinity Christian in Jacksonville, Miami commitment Josh Jobe, four-star safety from Columbus High School in Miami, Leon O'Neal, four-star safety from Cypress Springs High School in Cypress, Texas, Gurvan Hall, four-star safety from Palm Beach Lakes High School in West Palm Beach, are all heavily recruited and will be seen by Alabama this spring. A few of these guys also have the ability to play corner.
Isaac Taylor-Stuart, Rivals100 cornerback from St. Augustine High School in San Diego, has high interest in Alabama. LSU commitment Kelvin Jospeh, Rivals100 cornerback from Scotlandville High School in Baton Rouge, has visited Alabama a a few times including the first Junior Day in January. Myles Sims, four-star cornerback from Westlake High School in Atlanta, received an offer from Alabama on Saturday. So these are some key players to watch.
Alabama is on the outside looking in for Patrick Surtain, five-star cornerback from Plantation High School in Florida, and Al Blades, Rivals100 cornerback from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Bama is working hard to get both of these players on campus this spring.
Jalyn Armour-Davis, four-star cornerback from St. Paul's in Mobile, revealed his top six earlier this week. A surprise omission was Alabama. Alabama is recruiting him and considered a take. Alabama believes it will get back in the race.
Brennan Eagles, Rivals100 wide receiver from Alief Taylor High School in Houston, Texas, Gerry Bohannon, athlete from Earle High School in Arkansas, are a few other athletes Alabama really likes, who can play on either side of the ball.
Any specialists?
Yes, Alabama is likely to take a punter. No decision regarding an offer until the special teams camp in June.
Is Alabama in the market for any grad transfers?
No, not at this time. No scholarship available.
How are the 16 early enrollees doing since their arrival?
Crazy to think 16 members of Alabama's signing class are in Tuscaloosa. I've heard all are doing really well especially Najee Harris. Alabama has also been impressed with tight end Major Tennison.
All 16 players have the ability to contribute or at least provide depth to the team this fall. There is not one freshman on campus the staff thinks "definitely won't play" this year.
New recruiting territories
OC Brian Daboll: Tuscaloosa, Huntsville, Northeast
WR Coach Mike Locksley: Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa), DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia area)
TE Joe Pannunzio: South Florida area, Jackson, Mississippi to Memphis
OLB Tosh Lupoi: Will take over Napier's area in Dallas, a little bit of Houston (in addition to his other areas)
DL Karl Dunbar: Will take over Arkansas, Monroe, Louisiana (in addition to his other areas)
