Xavier Griffin, the nation’s top-ranked linebacker, is officially headed to Tuscaloosa. The Alabama native made his lifelong dream a reality when he announced his commitment to the Crimson Tide on Sunday, surrounded by family, teammates, and fellow Alabama recruits.
For Griffin, this decision has been a long time coming. He grew up cheering for the Tide, often dressing up in a full Alabama uniform—helmet included—even as a toddler. Reflecting on the journey, Griffin said his three-year-old self would have been “over the moon” about this moment.
Griffin, who transformed from a standout running back into the country’s No. 1 linebacker prospect, spoke with Bama247 about the decision. He described how a recent visit to Tuscaloosa solidified his choice, convincing him Alabama was truly home. Once he knew, he didn’t waste time letting the coaching staff know he was ready to roll with the Tide.
His commitment marks a major recruiting win for head coach Kalen DeBoer and his staff, who have been on a hot streak. In the past week alone, Alabama has climbed the recruiting rankings, jumping into the national top 10 with a surge of seven commitments in seven days—including Griffin’s.
Griffin is the latest big-name prospect to join a 2026 class that already boasts elite talent on both sides of the ball. And with several more top targets expected to announce their decisions soon, the Crimson Tide’s momentum on the recruiting trail shows no signs of slowing down.
From Childhood Fan to Crimson Tide Star: Xavier Griffin Commits to Alabama
