Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer looks to flip elite playmaker commit from former school

It's not uncommon for a new head coach to bring players from their former school. Kalen DeBoer, previously at Washington, is looking to flip an elite 2025 recruit committed to the Huskies. The Alabama Crimson Tide have only one tight end in their 2025 class, so adding Vander Ploog would be significant.

Ploog, a 4-star tight end from Fullerton, California, has been committed to the Huskies since June. However, that hasn't stopped DeBoer, Oregon, and Texas A&M from making offers since. Now, Ploog is surging as his senior year is underway.

With 14 offers in hand, Ploog is a late riser.

Standing at 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 223 pounds, Ploog possesses the remarkable skill of making plays post-catch and advancing upfield with exceptional acceleration, unusual for someone of his stature. Currently, his physical build presents a challenging mismatch for the majority of high school defensive backs.

Here's a full scouting report for Ploog.

Vander Ploog Scouting Report

A multi-sport athlete with a deep-rooted passion for basketball, influenced by a family legacy where both parents were college basketball players at Biola and a grandfather coached at Azusa Pacific.

A legitimate basketball player known for playing above the rim and also participating in baseball. Despite only two years of football experience, displays a natural aptitude for the sport. While still refining his technique and needing to build more upper body strength and mass to enhance his physicality in the run game, his physical frame is well-suited for such development.

Demonstrates ability to go after deep balls, excels in 50-50 situations, and in securing contested catches. Additionally, has shown improved agility and explosiveness in route transitions during the off-season on the 7v7 circuit. Certainly, a promising prospect with a high ceiling.