We are in the home stretch of the summer camp season as this is the final week before the dead period (June 27-July 24). We haven't seen many commitments this month. We didn't expect to. The majority of Alabama's targets have continued taking visits, and the expectation is several decisions will happen in July/August. I have it on good authority multiple players who have yet to announce commitments have already informed Alabama of their choice. It's hard to bank on it considering the world we live in now with NIL, etc... but Alabama appears in very good position with several key targets.
I am going to keep the same trend as we have on the previous two Insider Reports. The primary focus is on players who took official visits or participated in Alabama's camp(s) this past week. This is not an overall view of where things stand with each remaining target on the recruiting board.
On the officials
-I had a great interview with Okunlola about his first visit to Alabama (READ HERE!). He had a lot of positive things to say about the visit, but definitely a hard read on what he will do at this point. His parents were also in Tuscaloosa- very quiet/reserve, but they liked the structure of the program and strongly believe Alabama will look after their son's best interest. Alabama is in the race, but a decision won't happen for a while.
-I spoke with Downs on Monday night after he wrapped-up his visit with the Tide (READ HERE). I've heard for multiple sources this visit could not have gone any better. Downs and his family have visited Alabama several times. This was definitely the best visit for all. Alabama has put itself in very good position, but this is a tight race with Ohio State and Georgia. It will surprise me if Notre Dame is a serious contender. Travaris Robinson has recruited Downs for three years (different schools), but the relationship has been important for the Tide.
-Alabama is in the race with Haynes more than people might think. He has a very good relationship with running backs coach Robert Gillespie. I think Alabama has given him a lot to consider, but when it comes time to making a decision saying no to Georgia is likely tough. Alabama will continue its pursuit and making sure Haynes is treated as a priority.
-Sampson is quiet, in general, regarding his recruitment. Alabama signed five receivers in the 2022 class including the top three in Louisiana. I don't think Sampson gave Alabama any indication on which way he is leaning in his recruitment. I also don't think Alabama expects Sampson in this class. They'll continue recruiting him, but I'd put him more in the long shot category right now. Very quiet even when it comes to conversations with the coaches.
-It was another great visit for Wilson who was hosted by Dallas Turner throughout the weekend. Wilson has very high interest in Alabama after 3-4 trips to Tuscaloosa. He is not in any rush to make a decision. Alabama is recruiting Wilson as a 'Jack' linebacker. We will see if Alabama adds another player at his position before Wilson decides, but he is a definite take. They will continue to push for him.
-Vickers is getting very close to making a decision. His top three includes Alabama, Michigan and Oklahoma. I've said for a while that I expect Vickers in this class. I feel even stronger about it after his official visit. Vickers visited Alabama with his entire family. Read the interview-HERE! We will see when he schedules the decision, but my prediction is for Alabama.
-Brown is a pretty intriguing recruit who the staff has watched closely the last few months. There was some hope he would participate in camp, but decided to come in town for an official visit instead. Alabama will likely wait to see what happens with a few other DB targets before it makes a decision regarding Brown, but he is on the radar.
-I believe Alabama is in a great spot with the top JuCo WR after his visit last week. I haven't heard much since his visit to UGA, but Alabama appears to have moved ahead of Tennessee (who he named as his leader after the official with Vols). Benson may commit any day or set a commitment for sometime in July. Alabama wants him, and hopes he will jump on board soon.
-Hanafin had some flight delays/issues traveling to Tuscaloosa. He was supposed to arrive on Friday, but did not get in town until Sunday. He is completed his official visit with the Tide this morning I've heard things went great with him. The staff loves this kid, and really making him feel wanted. His family is Irish Catholic. We will see if that has a major impact with Notre Dame also very high on his list. The Irish likely sit in lead position, but we will speak with Hanafin
-This is a prospect Alabama had a lot of interest prior to his official visit. He visited earlier in the spring, The staff really likes his size, running ability and athleticism. He is definitely one who can stretch the field. That said, I don't expect Alabama to make a big push for his commitment. Thurman will announce a decision in July. I expect him to go elsewhere.
Other notable recruits who were in Tuscaloosa
Cormani McClain, five-star cornerback from Lakeland HS in Florida
-I have heard a lot of positive feedback on McClain after his trip to Alabama late last week. He isn't talking to the media right now (His mom also isn't talking.) There is a chance he may commit sometime next month even though most of his officials will take place in the fall. Alabama believes it has a great chance with McClain, a top priority target for T-Rob. Can he deliver? Florida is a very tough, and there until the end even if he commits to Alabama.
Peter Woods, Rivals100 defensive end from Thompson High School in Alabaster, Alabama
-Woods was in Tuscaloosa this weekend. However, he wasn't visiting Alabama. He was in town visiting relatives. He may have spent some time with a few Alabama players, but was not at the facility and did not see the Alabama coaches. I don't know exactly what has happened with Woods during the course of the last few months, but Clemson is a serious threat. He grew up an Alabama fan, is treated like a priority and it's a position of need. We will see if he takes a visit to Alabama this week/weekend before making a decision. He’s on flip watch until the end 'IF' he selects Clemson on July 8. There is still belief he will commit to Alabama, but is Clemson a major concern? Yes.
I know the news probably wasn't as positive as all wanted regarding Woods, but keep in mind we are still a few weeks away from his announcement. I think back to Sage Ryan a few years ago. A lock to LSU, and then all of a sudden he was close to announcing for Alabama only to commit to LSU. Possibly a similar situation. We will have to wait and find out in the next few weeks.
Tony Mitchell, Rivals100 cornerback from Thompson HS in Alabaster, Alabama
-What if Alabama signs the Thompson player we didn't expect? Mitchell visited Alabama twice last week. Yes, one of the visits was with his high school team for 7-on-7, but he spent time with the coaches on Saturday. He was also in town earlier in the week with his parents on an unofficial visit. I know many believe his recruitment is between Florida and Texas A&M, but I am starting to hear a lot of chatter on Alabama. The Tide is surging here in his recruitment, and possibly back in pole position.
James Smith, Rivals100 defensive tackle, Qua Russaw, Rivals100 linebacker from Carver HS in Montgomery
-The Carver HS duo visited Alabama on Monday after taking an official visit to Georgia this past weekend. Both like to stay pretty quiet as far as interviews, but spoke with one of their trainers who said the visit with the Crimson Tide went great. They spent time with all the defensive coaches and Coach Saban. Both plan to wait until December to make a decision. Alabama will get both for officials this fall. I still expect their decision will come down between Alabama and Georgia.
Myles McVay, four-star offensive tackle from East St. Louis HS in Illinois
-McVay arrived at Alabama on Sunday evening for a three-day unofficial visit. The coaches love McVay and consider him one of its top overall targets. McVay will take an official visit to Alabama on October 8. He may wait until the official to make a decision, but can also see something happening before then. I believe Alabama has a strong lead in his recruitment.
Yhonzae Pierre, four-star outside linebacker from Eufaula HS in Alabama (Alabama commitment)
-Pierre worked the edge at Alabama's OL/DL camp on Saturday. Two sources including my most trusted said, "the best edge performance in camp since Will Anderson." Pierre measured 6-foot-3, 219-pounds. He is rock solid with his commitment. The Crimson Tide coaches were excited when he committed, but even more so now after they have seen his progress/development. He is just scratching the surface.
Jaren Hamilton, wide receiver from Yonge HS in Gainesville, Florida
-Hamilton earned an offer from Alabama after his performance in the Tide's camp last week. He measured 6-foot-1, 188-pounds and clocked a 4.40 (40x). He didn't give much of an indication as far as a favorite in his recruitment, but I suspect Alabama is on the short list.
Ryqueze McElderry, four-star offensive guard from Anniston HS in Alabama (UGA commitment)
-McElderry returned to Alabama last week with a few of his teammates who competed in the Tide's camp on Wednesday. McElderry spent time with Nick Saban and Eric Wolford. The staff continues to press for him to flip from Georgia. I know there was some 'talk' about Auburn after his official visit. It's just hard to imagine him flipping to Auburn. McElderry grew up an Alabama fan, in a Tide household, and wanted by Coach Saban. Alabama offered late, and that benefited UGA. I still think Alabama has a great chance to flip him. It's the Tide or the Bulldogs (not the Tigers) IMO.
Jackson Bowers, four-star tight end from Mountain View HS in Mesa, Arizona
-Bowers took his second visit to Alabama last week, Alabama may continue recruiting him, but isn't a priority target at this time.
Underclassmen who made big impressions in the last week (no particular order)
Daniel Calhoun, 2024 five-star offensive tackle from Centennial HS in Roswell, Georgia
Mason Short, 2025 offensive tackle from Evans HS in Georgia
Ryan Williams, 2025 wide receiver from Saraland HS in Alabama
Jahkeem Stewart, 2026 defensive lineman from New Orleans (still trying to decide where he will attend HS)
Eddy Pierre-Louis, 2024 four-star offensive guard from Catholic HS in Tampa (heard Chance Warmack comparions)
Jake Guarnera, 2024 offensive lineman from Ponte Vedra HS in Florida
Ashton Funk, 2024 three-star offensive tackle from Tompkins HS in Katy, Texas
Michael Van Buren, 2024 four-star quarterback from St. Frances HS in Baltimore
Cutter Boley, 2025 quarterback from Lexington Christian Academy in Kentucky
Nigel Smith, 2024 Rivals100 defensive end from Melissa HS in Texas (Did not work out, but was told Smith definitely looked the part and a top target.
Officials this weekend (no mid-week visitors, list is subject to change)
Jeremiyah Love, Rivals100 running back from Christian Brothers in St. Louis
Aidan Mizell, Rivals100 wide receiver from Boone HS in Orlando
Rueben Bain, four-star defensive end from Central HS in Miami
Jordan Renaud, four-star defensive end from Legacy HS in Tyler, Texas
Edric Hill, four-star defensive tackle from North HS in Kansas City, Missouri
A few other notable recruits expected in town
Malik Muhammad, Rivals100 cornerback from South Oak Cliff HS in Dallas (arriving on Thursday for an unofficial visit).
Jeremiah Smith, 2024 Rivals100 (No. 14 overall) wide receiver from Madonna HS in Hollywood, Florida
Derrick McFall, 2024 Rivals100 running back from Tyler High School in Texas (visiting Alabama on Tuesday)
Josiah Thompson, 2024 four-star offensive tackle from Dillon HS in South Carolina (arriving on Friday)
*Please keep in mind we will add several more names to the list of visitors throughout the week.
I am going to keep the same trend as we have on the previous two Insider Reports. The primary focus is on players who took official visits or participated in Alabama's camp(s) this past week. This is not an overall view of where things stand with each remaining target on the recruiting board.
On the officials
-I had a great interview with Okunlola about his first visit to Alabama (READ HERE!). He had a lot of positive things to say about the visit, but definitely a hard read on what he will do at this point. His parents were also in Tuscaloosa- very quiet/reserve, but they liked the structure of the program and strongly believe Alabama will look after their son's best interest. Alabama is in the race, but a decision won't happen for a while.
-I spoke with Downs on Monday night after he wrapped-up his visit with the Tide (READ HERE). I've heard for multiple sources this visit could not have gone any better. Downs and his family have visited Alabama several times. This was definitely the best visit for all. Alabama has put itself in very good position, but this is a tight race with Ohio State and Georgia. It will surprise me if Notre Dame is a serious contender. Travaris Robinson has recruited Downs for three years (different schools), but the relationship has been important for the Tide.
-Alabama is in the race with Haynes more than people might think. He has a very good relationship with running backs coach Robert Gillespie. I think Alabama has given him a lot to consider, but when it comes time to making a decision saying no to Georgia is likely tough. Alabama will continue its pursuit and making sure Haynes is treated as a priority.
-Sampson is quiet, in general, regarding his recruitment. Alabama signed five receivers in the 2022 class including the top three in Louisiana. I don't think Sampson gave Alabama any indication on which way he is leaning in his recruitment. I also don't think Alabama expects Sampson in this class. They'll continue recruiting him, but I'd put him more in the long shot category right now. Very quiet even when it comes to conversations with the coaches.
-It was another great visit for Wilson who was hosted by Dallas Turner throughout the weekend. Wilson has very high interest in Alabama after 3-4 trips to Tuscaloosa. He is not in any rush to make a decision. Alabama is recruiting Wilson as a 'Jack' linebacker. We will see if Alabama adds another player at his position before Wilson decides, but he is a definite take. They will continue to push for him.
-Vickers is getting very close to making a decision. His top three includes Alabama, Michigan and Oklahoma. I've said for a while that I expect Vickers in this class. I feel even stronger about it after his official visit. Vickers visited Alabama with his entire family. Read the interview-HERE! We will see when he schedules the decision, but my prediction is for Alabama.
-Brown is a pretty intriguing recruit who the staff has watched closely the last few months. There was some hope he would participate in camp, but decided to come in town for an official visit instead. Alabama will likely wait to see what happens with a few other DB targets before it makes a decision regarding Brown, but he is on the radar.
-I believe Alabama is in a great spot with the top JuCo WR after his visit last week. I haven't heard much since his visit to UGA, but Alabama appears to have moved ahead of Tennessee (who he named as his leader after the official with Vols). Benson may commit any day or set a commitment for sometime in July. Alabama wants him, and hopes he will jump on board soon.
-Hanafin had some flight delays/issues traveling to Tuscaloosa. He was supposed to arrive on Friday, but did not get in town until Sunday. He is completed his official visit with the Tide this morning I've heard things went great with him. The staff loves this kid, and really making him feel wanted. His family is Irish Catholic. We will see if that has a major impact with Notre Dame also very high on his list. The Irish likely sit in lead position, but we will speak with Hanafin
-This is a prospect Alabama had a lot of interest prior to his official visit. He visited earlier in the spring, The staff really likes his size, running ability and athleticism. He is definitely one who can stretch the field. That said, I don't expect Alabama to make a big push for his commitment. Thurman will announce a decision in July. I expect him to go elsewhere.
Other notable recruits who were in Tuscaloosa
Cormani McClain, five-star cornerback from Lakeland HS in Florida
-I have heard a lot of positive feedback on McClain after his trip to Alabama late last week. He isn't talking to the media right now (His mom also isn't talking.) There is a chance he may commit sometime next month even though most of his officials will take place in the fall. Alabama believes it has a great chance with McClain, a top priority target for T-Rob. Can he deliver? Florida is a very tough, and there until the end even if he commits to Alabama.
Peter Woods, Rivals100 defensive end from Thompson High School in Alabaster, Alabama
-Woods was in Tuscaloosa this weekend. However, he wasn't visiting Alabama. He was in town visiting relatives. He may have spent some time with a few Alabama players, but was not at the facility and did not see the Alabama coaches. I don't know exactly what has happened with Woods during the course of the last few months, but Clemson is a serious threat. He grew up an Alabama fan, is treated like a priority and it's a position of need. We will see if he takes a visit to Alabama this week/weekend before making a decision. He’s on flip watch until the end 'IF' he selects Clemson on July 8. There is still belief he will commit to Alabama, but is Clemson a major concern? Yes.
I know the news probably wasn't as positive as all wanted regarding Woods, but keep in mind we are still a few weeks away from his announcement. I think back to Sage Ryan a few years ago. A lock to LSU, and then all of a sudden he was close to announcing for Alabama only to commit to LSU. Possibly a similar situation. We will have to wait and find out in the next few weeks.
Tony Mitchell, Rivals100 cornerback from Thompson HS in Alabaster, Alabama
-What if Alabama signs the Thompson player we didn't expect? Mitchell visited Alabama twice last week. Yes, one of the visits was with his high school team for 7-on-7, but he spent time with the coaches on Saturday. He was also in town earlier in the week with his parents on an unofficial visit. I know many believe his recruitment is between Florida and Texas A&M, but I am starting to hear a lot of chatter on Alabama. The Tide is surging here in his recruitment, and possibly back in pole position.
James Smith, Rivals100 defensive tackle, Qua Russaw, Rivals100 linebacker from Carver HS in Montgomery
-The Carver HS duo visited Alabama on Monday after taking an official visit to Georgia this past weekend. Both like to stay pretty quiet as far as interviews, but spoke with one of their trainers who said the visit with the Crimson Tide went great. They spent time with all the defensive coaches and Coach Saban. Both plan to wait until December to make a decision. Alabama will get both for officials this fall. I still expect their decision will come down between Alabama and Georgia.
Myles McVay, four-star offensive tackle from East St. Louis HS in Illinois
-McVay arrived at Alabama on Sunday evening for a three-day unofficial visit. The coaches love McVay and consider him one of its top overall targets. McVay will take an official visit to Alabama on October 8. He may wait until the official to make a decision, but can also see something happening before then. I believe Alabama has a strong lead in his recruitment.
Yhonzae Pierre, four-star outside linebacker from Eufaula HS in Alabama (Alabama commitment)
-Pierre worked the edge at Alabama's OL/DL camp on Saturday. Two sources including my most trusted said, "the best edge performance in camp since Will Anderson." Pierre measured 6-foot-3, 219-pounds. He is rock solid with his commitment. The Crimson Tide coaches were excited when he committed, but even more so now after they have seen his progress/development. He is just scratching the surface.
Jaren Hamilton, wide receiver from Yonge HS in Gainesville, Florida
-Hamilton earned an offer from Alabama after his performance in the Tide's camp last week. He measured 6-foot-1, 188-pounds and clocked a 4.40 (40x). He didn't give much of an indication as far as a favorite in his recruitment, but I suspect Alabama is on the short list.
Ryqueze McElderry, four-star offensive guard from Anniston HS in Alabama (UGA commitment)
-McElderry returned to Alabama last week with a few of his teammates who competed in the Tide's camp on Wednesday. McElderry spent time with Nick Saban and Eric Wolford. The staff continues to press for him to flip from Georgia. I know there was some 'talk' about Auburn after his official visit. It's just hard to imagine him flipping to Auburn. McElderry grew up an Alabama fan, in a Tide household, and wanted by Coach Saban. Alabama offered late, and that benefited UGA. I still think Alabama has a great chance to flip him. It's the Tide or the Bulldogs (not the Tigers) IMO.
Jackson Bowers, four-star tight end from Mountain View HS in Mesa, Arizona
-Bowers took his second visit to Alabama last week, Alabama may continue recruiting him, but isn't a priority target at this time.
Underclassmen who made big impressions in the last week (no particular order)
Daniel Calhoun, 2024 five-star offensive tackle from Centennial HS in Roswell, Georgia
Mason Short, 2025 offensive tackle from Evans HS in Georgia
Ryan Williams, 2025 wide receiver from Saraland HS in Alabama
Jahkeem Stewart, 2026 defensive lineman from New Orleans (still trying to decide where he will attend HS)
Eddy Pierre-Louis, 2024 four-star offensive guard from Catholic HS in Tampa (heard Chance Warmack comparions)
Jake Guarnera, 2024 offensive lineman from Ponte Vedra HS in Florida
Ashton Funk, 2024 three-star offensive tackle from Tompkins HS in Katy, Texas
Michael Van Buren, 2024 four-star quarterback from St. Frances HS in Baltimore
Cutter Boley, 2025 quarterback from Lexington Christian Academy in Kentucky
Nigel Smith, 2024 Rivals100 defensive end from Melissa HS in Texas (Did not work out, but was told Smith definitely looked the part and a top target.
Officials this weekend (no mid-week visitors, list is subject to change)
Jeremiyah Love, Rivals100 running back from Christian Brothers in St. Louis
Aidan Mizell, Rivals100 wide receiver from Boone HS in Orlando
Rueben Bain, four-star defensive end from Central HS in Miami
Jordan Renaud, four-star defensive end from Legacy HS in Tyler, Texas
Edric Hill, four-star defensive tackle from North HS in Kansas City, Missouri
A few other notable recruits expected in town
Malik Muhammad, Rivals100 cornerback from South Oak Cliff HS in Dallas (arriving on Thursday for an unofficial visit).
Jeremiah Smith, 2024 Rivals100 (No. 14 overall) wide receiver from Madonna HS in Hollywood, Florida
Derrick McFall, 2024 Rivals100 running back from Tyler High School in Texas (visiting Alabama on Tuesday)
Josiah Thompson, 2024 four-star offensive tackle from Dillon HS in South Carolina (arriving on Friday)
*Please keep in mind we will add several more names to the list of visitors throughout the week.
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