When it comes to college football recruiting, few programs generate more attention—and scrutiny—than the Alabama Crimson Tide. With the 2026 recruiting cycle now in full swing, many fans are wondering whether the program’s uncharacteristically slow start is a cause for concern. As of mid-June, Alabama has only seven verbal commitments, a number that places them outside the top 40 in the national team rankings.
For a powerhouse that routinely lands top-tier recruiting classes—and brought in 10 No. 1 classes during Nick Saban’s legendary tenure—this early lull might feel like uncharted waters. But before Alabama fans start hitting the panic button, it’s important to understand the broader context.
📅 June Matters, But It’s Not the End
June marks a pivotal point in the recruiting calendar. While prospects typically sign during the December or February windows, June is when classes are largely built. It’s the month of official visits, campus tours, and key evaluation periods. So yes, being behind at this point isn’t ideal. But it’s also far from final.
In fact, Alabama has often started slowly—even under Saban—and still managed to finish with top-five or top-three classes. Recruiting isn’t a sprint; it’s a strategic marathon, and this early phase only tells part of the story.
💼 A Change in Leadership, A Shift in Strategy
Following Nick Saban’s retirement, Kalen DeBoer took over one of the most high-pressure coaching positions in college football. Expectations were sky-high. And in his first full recruiting cycle, DeBoer delivered—landing the No. 3 overall class in 2025. That’s no small feat and a strong early indicator that he and his staff can hold their own on the national stage.
What’s happening in 2026 is less about red flags and more about relationship-building. DeBoer and his staff are still relatively new to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) recruiting footprint. Trust, familiarity, and reputation take time to develop in these competitive circles. But DeBoer has proven at both Washington and now Alabama that he knows how to connect with players and sell a winning vision.
💡 The Jett Thomalla Flip: A Spark?
One major move that could indicate momentum is Alabama’s recent flip of Top247 quarterback Jett Thomalla, who was previously committed to Iowa State. Thomalla is a dynamic passer with a high ceiling, and his commitment gives Alabama a strong centerpiece to build the class around.
It also signals that the coaching staff is very much in the game when it comes to elite talent. Quarterback recruits often act as magnets, helping to attract top wide receivers, offensive linemen, and other skill position players.
🔍 Expert Insight
According to Brett Greenberg, a recruiting analyst for Bama247, the current state of the 2026 class isn’t reason for alarm. Instead, it should be viewed as the beginning of a critical summer stretch that will help define this recruiting cycle. With official visits continuing and summer camps ramping up, the next two months will be crucial for the staff to make its pitch to top prospects.
🧠 Final Thought
Yes, Alabama is off to a slower-than-usual start. No, that doesn’t mean the dynasty is crumbling.
Recruiting under a new head coach always comes with transitional hurdles, but early June results rarely predict final class rankings. Kalen DeBoer has already shown he can attract top talent, and the infrastructure, tradition, and brand power of Alabama remain unmatched.
If history is any guide, the Tide will rise—and it will likely do so just in time.