Alabama Crimson Tide honing in on key position group for 2027 recruiting cycle ahead of pivotal visits weekend in Tuscaloosa
The Alabama Crimson Tide is about to have one of the biggest recruiting weekends of the year, and there is one position that Alabama is targeting heavily.
The Alabama Crimson Tide has been quiet thus far when it comes to the 2027 recruiting class. Including marquee additions like quarterback Elijah Haven and linebacker Kenneth Simon, Alabama has just six hard commits for the 2027 cycle and ranks 45th nationally for the upcoming class.
But all of that could change this weekend. Alabama kicks off its official visit season in Tuscaloosa with a stellar crop of recruits, including one at running back, a position group that Alabama seems to be targeting in 2027.
Alabama visits scheduled for May 29-31
- 5-star WR Monshun Sales
- 4-star LB Kenneth Simon (committed)
- 4-star DL Mitchell Turner
- 4-star WR Osani Gayles
- 3-star CB Darrius White
- 4-star CB Hayden Stepp
- 4-star RB Nigel Newkirk
- 4-star EDGE Antwan Jackson
- 4-star DL AJ Pauley
Alabama focused on running backs for 2027 class
“Running back is one of the biggest points of emphasis for Alabama in the cycle. Columbia (SC) Irmo’s Tai Phillips is a top-of-the-board prospect and I like where the Crimson Tide stand. After talking to a source with knowledge of the recruitment over the weekend I predict he’ll land in Tuscaloosa unless Florida State is able to change the narrative of that one.”
“Alabama aims to take two tailbacks and beyond Phillips, they’re in great standing with two four-stars in Gainesville (Ga.) High four-star Nigel Newkirk and fellow Rivals300 recruit Trey Martin out of Winnsboro (La.) Franklin Parish.” – Steve Wiltfong, Rivals-On3
Alabama is hosting Nigel Newkirk on official visit this weekend
Newkirk is one of the headliners in Tuscaloosa this weekend as Alabama looks to make a push at the position. One of the featured players in the 2026 class was EJ Crowell, for whom the Tide has big hopes despite his lack of participation in the spring.
But the rest of that room features experienced players like Daniel Hill, AK Dear, and Kevin Riley. The Tide’s quest to find their next set of backs starts this weekend and will likely carry through national signing day.
Kalen DeBoer and Ryan Grubb know that the struggles of the 2025 season on the ground can never happen again, and between the portal with the trenches and the search for backs, they are taking the proper steps to remedy that problem.