When Nick Saban retired the idea of trying to replace one of the greatest of all time seemed daunting, if not completely impossible. But now that we've gotten to see the majority of Kalen DeBoer's first recruiting cycle it seems like he is already a clear slam dunk hire--at least in the recruiting department.
The Alabama Crimson Tide are already ranked second among all college football programs for the 2025 recruiting class and their momentum isn't slowing down at all. Alabama is one of just two schools as of this writing (the other being Ohio State) with over 20 commits for 2025 and a blue chip ratio (four and five star percentage) over 60%. Thanks to their incredible month of June, Alabama now has nearly 20 four and five star recruits. Let's dive into the latest summer commits that are making this Crimson Tide recruiting class potentially one of the greatest of all time.
Alabama Summer Football Commits
Dijon Lee, 5 Star Cornerback
This five star cornerback might be the best defender in the entire 2025 recruiting class. Dijon Lee has been considered a consensus five star recruit for well over a year now thanks to his incredible size and length, standing around 6'4" with long arms to break up passes. He doesn't boast truly elite speed, but Lee is one of the most physically gifted and intelligent players in the class.
Keelon Russell, 5 Star Quarterback
There might not be a hotter name in all of recruiting after this summer. Keelon Russell is fresh off back to back Texas high school football state championships and just wont the Elite 11 Finals MVP in June. Russell has been climbing up the rankings for months already, but that should continue now.
There's a great chance he's a consensus five star quarterback across all the major recruiting services after his senior year. His incredible mix of mobility and downfield passing ability make him an incredible future pro prospect and the favorite to start for Alabama early in his college career.
Related: 2024 Elite 11 Finals Predictions highlight QB commits from Ohio State, Tennessee, Texas, Notre Dame, and more
Chuck McDonald, 5 Star Cornerback
McDonald has starred for one of the best high school football programs in the nation (Mater Dei in Santa Ana, CA) for three years now. He has the speed to stick with any and every wide receiver with insane ball skills and timing to break up passes late. He plays well in space, and attacks downhill well out of off coverage when called upon too.
Micah DeBose, 4 Star Offensive Tackle
There aren't many offensive tackles who have been a consensus five star freak talent for over two years, but Micah DeBose fits that bill. Well over 300 pounds already, standing at 6'5", with long arms, DeBose has all the physical tools to start nearly right away for the Crimson Tide at either offensive tackle spot in 2025
Dawson Merritt, 4 Star Linebacker
This NFL legacy prospect (son of Dave Merritt, former Dolphins cornerback) has the build and versatility to play a number of defensive spots for Alabama. He could play off-ball linebacker, bulk up and rush of the edge, or even drop deep playing a longer safety role. His experience would suggest off-ball linebacker is best, but his athleticism, acceleration, and awareness could be useful just about anywhere on defense.
Related: Ohio State, Alabama, Georgia, and some surprises featured in updated 2025 Recruiting Class Rankings
Jackson Lloyd, 4 Star Offensive Tackle
The Crimson Tide may have their Joe Alt kind of prospect at offensive tackle here with Jackson Lloyd. He's already 6'7" (or taller) with a baseball and basketball background. His quickness and feet should allow him to earn some decent snaps early if he can just add a few more pounds.
Michael Carroll, 4 Star Offensive Lineman
There's a good chance that after this fall Michael Carroll is considered the clear top overall interior offensive line prospect. His strength, hands, and advanced vision and moves as an interior lineman projection make him one of the most unstoppable forces in the nation right now and he's still in high school.
Top Tier 3 Star Recruits
Alabama doesn't sign many three star recruits historically, but when they do there's a reason. Mal Waldrep (offensive tackle) is already reportedly 320 pounds with a frame to hold even more. He may earn a roster spot realy. London Simmons (defensive lineman) is an interior defensive lineman, but he projects to be someone who can truly play any technique asked of him along the defensive front. Alex Asparuhov may "just" be a kicker, but Alabama has prioritized getting top talents there recently and it's paid off.
Be looking for more Alabama Crimson Tide coverage here at A to Z Sports all year long! And follow me (@FF_TravisM) on X (Twitter) for all the latest football news!
And if you want to watch some Keelon Russell highlights to get pumped for his future at quarterback for Alabama you can check out the video below!
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