Kalen DeBoer makes massive recruiting stride as 6' 5" 330 lbs OT announces his Alabama commitment for 2026 class

Kalen DeBoer is gearing up for his second stint with the Alabama Crimson Tide. After taking over as Nick Saban's successor last year, he was unable to live up to the expectations during his debut in Tuscaloosa. DeBoer could only muster an underwhelming 9-4 record with the program, failing to compete for the SEC title and qualify for the 12-team playoffs.

Amidst his preparations for redemption, Kalen DeBoer is also taking strides in recruiting for the class of 2026. On Monday, it was reported that Alabama has secured the commitment of this 6'5", 330 lbs offensive tackle.

According to BamaOnLine owner Tim Watts, four-star prospect Samuelu Utu has committed to playing for Kalen DeBoer's team. He announced his decision during an interview with On3 on Monday. Utu chose the Crimson Tide over offers from other programs like SMU, Tennessee, and Texas, among others.

Samuelu Utu is considered the No.7 interior offensive lineman in the class of 2026 according to 247Sports. During his interaction with On3's Chad Simmons, he opened up about his decision to commit to Alabama.

"Football-wise, the offensive scheme fits my style of play..." Utu said. "Coach Grubb is an amazing coach and an even better person. He made me comfortable while learning new techniques and terminology. I know what I'm stepping into and how well they'll prepare me for the next phase of my football career."

The other commits of the Crimson Tide's recruiting class of 2026 are cornerbacks Jorden Edmonds and Zyan Gibson, OL Chris Booker, EDGE Jamarion Matthews, and DL Kamhariyan Johnson.

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CFB insider predicts Kalen DeBoer's team to be a strong competitor for the commitment of five-star 2026 recruit

Kalen DeBoer is ensuring that he has enough talent to work with at Tuscaloosa. Apart from revamping the team for the 2025 season, the Crimson Tide is also working to secure a few elite prospects of the class of 2026.

According to On3's Andrew Bone, five-star safety Jett Washington is one of those prospects. On last weekend's episode of 'Inside Scoop', he stated that Alabama is one of the teams highly touted to land the five-star safety.

"I think it's tight. We've talked about it for several months," Bone said. "And it looks like it's an Alabama-Oregon battle now. There's some other schools that are still in.... But it still seems like it's an Alabama-Oregon type race."

Andrew Bone also talked about Jett Washington's official visit to Tuscaloosa. He reported that the five-star prospect had a good time with the program and its coaching staff. After his first visit during A-Day in April, Washington stated that DeBoer's team was a top target on his commitment list.