Tuscaloosa, Alabama – The Alabama football program is set to experience a significant change as they approach signing day without Nick Saban for the first time since 2006. After Saban’s retirement on January 10, the reins have been passed to Kalen DeBoer, who has taken on the role of head coach. While the majority of the 2024 recruiting class can be attributed to Saban and his staff, DeBoer has been diligently working to retain as many signees and commitments as possible. Despite the departure of a couple of players, namely Julian Sayin and Jaheer Grimsley, DeBoer has successfully kept the group mostly intact.
As is usually the case, a significant portion of Alabama’s recruiting class was signed during the early signing period in December. However, they are expected to add a few more players during National Signing Day on Wednesday. This dual signing process allows the team to solidify its lineup and address any remaining needs.
Alabama’s signing day additions include wide receiver Ryan Williams, hailing from Saraland, Alabama, with an impressive 247Sports Composite five-star rating. Williams stands at 6-0 and weighs 165 pounds, ranking nationally at No. 4 and at No. 3 in his position. Another notable signing is EDGE Noah Carter, coming from Peoria, Arizona. With a height of 6-4 and weighing 218 pounds, Carter boasts a four-star rating and is ranked nationally at No. 108 and at No. 9 in his position.
In addition to the new signings, it is essential to acknowledge the players who committed to Alabama during the early signing period. These recruits include cornerbacks Jaylen Mbakwe, Zabien Brown, and Kevin Riley, as well as defensive linemen Jeremiah Beaman and Isaia Faga. The early signing period also brought in offensive linemen Joseph Ionata and Casey Poe, as well as tight end Jay Lindsey and linebacker Cayden Jones.
The addition of Kalen DeBoer as Alabama’s new head coach marks the beginning of a new era for the football program. With his efforts to retain and recruit talented players, the Crimson Tide is poised to maintain their winning legacy. As the team continues to shape its roster, fans eagerly await the impact these prospects will have on the future of Alabama football.