News & Your Opinion

Tide secures commitment from top running back in the state

The Alabama Crimson Tide secured a massive win for the class of 2026 on Thursday when they landed the commitment of the top running back in the state and the No. 2-ranked back in the nation, Ezavier “EJ” Crowell of Jackson High School.

Crowell sent waves across the state when he selected Alabama and head coach Kalen DeBoer over the Auburn Tigers, Georgia Bulldogs, and Texas Longhorns.

Crowell announced the huge news in a video shared by WKRG News.

BAMA BOUND!!! EJ Crowell is rolling with the Crimson Tide!! Big thanks to @EzavierCrowell and his family for letting WKRG Sports be a part of his big day! Awesome moment for the Nation’s #1 running back!! pic.twitter.com/ZC3XRqlFDb

— Simone Eli (@SimoneEli_TV) June 27, 2025

Just a sophomore last year, Crowell is reclassifying to 2026, allowing him one final season in high school before he heads to Tuscaloosa.

Crowell was joined by fellow elite recruit QB Landon Duckworth in leading Jackson to a 4A state championship last season.

Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.