By Mmesoma 
Tuscaloosa, Ala. — July 4, 2025 — The Alabama Crimson Tide continue to make waves on the recruiting trail, as one of the nation’s top defensive prospects has officially placed them among his final group of schools.
Jeremiah “J.J.” Barnes, a 5-star EDGE rusher out of Buford High School in Georgia, announced on social media Thursday that Alabama is among the top five programs he’s considering as he nears a college decision. The 6-foot-5, 240-pound pass-rushing phenom is ranked among the top 10 overall recruits in the Class of 2026 by multiple outlets, including 247Sports and On3.
Barnes listed Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, Texas, and USC as his finalists.
🔥 Dominant Force Off the Edge
Regarded as one of the most explosive athletes in the cycle, Barnes has drawn comparisons to former Alabama great Will Anderson Jr. for his quick first step, violent hands, and relentless motor. As a junior, he posted 18 sacks, 27 tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles, anchoring one of Georgia’s most dominant high school defenses.
“He plays with the kind of edge you dream of in a pass rusher,” said Buford head coach Marcus Givens. “He’s got the tools to be a game-wrecker at the next level.”
🐘 Why Alabama’s in the Mix
Alabama has long been known for developing NFL-ready EDGE players, and that tradition is a major draw for Barnes.
In a recent interview with Rivals, Barnes said, “Alabama is just different. It’s a program that builds men, not just football players. What Coach DeBoer and Coach Roach are doing with the defense has caught my attention big time.”
Defensive line coach Freddie Roach has been personally leading Barnes’ recruitment, and sources indicate the Tide have made a strong impression following an official visit to Tuscaloosa in early June.
🔍 What’s Next?
Barnes is expected to announce his commitment by late August, ahead of his senior season. While Georgia and Ohio State are considered serious contenders, Alabama is seen as a legitimate frontrunner given its history of developing elite defensive talent and sending pass rushers to the NFL.
With recent commitments on offense and secondary positions, landing Barnes would be a major defensive statement for head coach Kalen DeBoer, as he builds on the program’s recruiting momentum in Year Two.
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🗣️ Fan Buzz
Alabama fans are already buzzing with optimism on forums and social media, with many pointing to Barnes as a potential cornerstone of the 2026 class.
“If we get J.J., that’s another monster in crimson,” one fan posted on BamaInsider. “He’s the next great Tide pass rusher.”
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📌 Final Thoughts
While the competition is fierce, Alabama’s strong reputation for defensive player development and Barnes’ clear admiration for the program make this a recruitment to watch closely in the coming weeks.
Could a Crimson Tide recruiting win be on the horizon? All signs point to yes — but the battle is far from over.