Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer locks in key official visit for elite USC commit and Georgia flip target

The 2026 recruiting class is already coming into focus for many of the nation's top programs. The Alabama Crimson Tide has been hot since head coach Kalen DeBoer got settled in, and they are looking to test just how well they can pitch life in Tuscaloosa and beyond.

The latest intel around the Crimson Tide is they're looking to flip elite 2026 linebacker Xavier Griffin from USC. However, the Georgia Bulldogs are also pursuing the 5-star from Gainesville, Georgia. DeBoer wants to pull a special trick out of his sleeve to land Griffin.

The risk DeBoer is taking is to have Griffin take his next official visit to Alabama on Sept. 28, when the Tide host Georgia.

The current USC commit has previously come to Tuscaloosa over summer for a June camp.

“I had a great workout session with coach (Christian) Robinson and coach (Kane) Wommack and got to catch up with coach Daboer,” Griffin previously said.”I absolutely loved it. It’s a great time every time I go.”

Griffin stands at a towering 6-feet-4 inches, embodying the ideal future edge defender with his rapid movements, capable of covering the field from one end to the other.

Hailing from Alabama, he epitomizes the versatility sought in a linebacker prospect, thanks to his impressive stature and agility. Additionally, his knack for executing plays, whether from the edge or off the ball, sets him apart.

Griffin believes that his strong suit lies in his ability to swiftly disengage from blocks and effectively diminish the distance between him and his target.