CFB insider predicts Alabama's Ty Simpson to get massive help from 4-star weapon as Kalen DeBoer navigates post-Nick Saban era

Alabama has started the class of 2026 recruiting cycle on a brilliant note. There were a lot of doubts about the ability of the Crimson Tide to recruit in the post-Nick Saban era, under the leadership of Kalen DeBoer. However, the recruiting performance in the class of 2025 has so far cleared all the doubts.

According to expert prediction of On3’s Steve Wiltfong, the Crimson Tide are projected to land four-star offensive lineman Samuelu Utu. Ranked No. 102 overall in the 2026 recruiting cycle according to 247Sports, Utu is also the No. 7 prospect at his position.

Should Alabama secure his signature during the Early Signing Period in December, Utu is bound to provide the needed protection for Ty Simpson in the interior of the offensive line in 2026. Simpson is projected to start at quarterback in 2025 and will play his final season in 2026.

Without a doubt, Samuel Utu can get to play early as a true freshman in 2026. A host of offensive linemen have had the opportunity to play a significant number of games as a freshman in Tuscaloosa. This includes names like JC Latham, Tyler Booker and Kadyn Proctor.

The Crimson Tide has recruited well in the offensive line over the years and has also effectively utilized its players to ensure success on the field. The program has produced an offensive lineman in the first round of the NFL draft every year since 2019, excluding 2023.

Alabama's class of 2026 so far

Alabama hasn't fully hit its stride on the recruiting trail just yet for the 2026 recruiting class. The Crimson Tide currently holds just five commitments in the cycle, showcasing the amount of work that needs to be done by Kalen DeBoer and his staff as he enters his second year.

All five commits are blue-chip prospects, offering the belief that the program can build its pace and keep up with its rivals in the cycle. Two of the prospects are from Alabama, while the other three hail from Georgia.

The Crimson Tide's 2026 recruiting class is currently ranked No. 46 nationally and No. 12 in the SEC by 247Sports, No. 10 nationally and No. 4 in the SEC by On3, unranked in ESPN’s Top 25 and No. 44 nationally and No. 12 in the SEC according to Rivals.

Here's a look at the five committed prospects

No. 1. Jorden Edmonds, cornerback

No. 2. Zyan Gibson, cornerback

No. 3. Jamarion Matthews, defensive end

No. 4. Chris Booker, offensive line

No. 5. Kamhariyan Johnson, defensive line