Alabama Dealt Devastating Blow on Recruiting Trail on Sunday

Crimson Tide Recruiting Stumbles as Top Prospect Chooses Notre Dame

Alabama's quest for a dominant 2026 recruiting class hit a snag over the weekend. Despite boasting an impressive roster of commitments including five-star talents Jireh Edwards, Xavier Griffin, Cederian Morgan, and Jorden Edmonds, the Crimson Tide lost out on four-star defensive lineman Elijah Golden.

Golden, hailing from Sarasota, Florida, and attending Cardinal Mooney High School, opted for Notre Dame over Alabama, Oklahoma, and Virginia Tech. The 6-foot-3.5, 278-pound prospect ranks as the No. 19 overall recruit and top defensive lineman in Rivals' Industry Rankings for the 2026 class.

Alabama's Defensive Line Efforts Continue

With Golden's commitment to Notre Dame, Alabama's defensive line commitments currently stand at three-star prospect JJ Finch, and four-stars Kamhariyan Johnson and Nolan Wilson.

DeBoer Praises Quarterback Performance in Fall Camp

Meanwhile, Head Coach Kalen DeBoer expressed satisfaction with the quarterbacks during Alabama's first scrimmage of fall camp. He lauded their consistency, highlighting only three interceptions thrown throughout training camp and a completion percentage above 65% for each quarterback. Ty Simpson ultimately secured the starting position, edging out former five-star prospect Keelon Russell and transfer Austin Mack from the Washington Huskies.

Simpson will have the benefit of connecting with one of college football's top receivers in sophomore Ryan Williams. SEC Network analyst Chris Doering has even declared Williams the best wide receiver in the SEC. Williams shone as a true freshman last season, leading Alabama with 865 receiving yards and eight touchdowns.

Crimson Tide Set to Face Florida State in Season Opener

Alabama kicks off their 2023-24 season on August 30th at 3:30 p.m. ET against the Florida State Seminoles, airing live on ABC.