Kalen DeBoer’s first season at Alabama saw a top-five recruiting class, but he landed just two in-state signees. This raised eyebrows as Auburn scooped up eight of Alabama’s top 10 prospects for 2025. Still, the Crimson Tide finished No. 4 in the final 247Sports Composite rankings.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Crimson Tide is refocusing on local talent. They recently hosted five-star edge rusher Anthony “Tank” Jones from Mobile and brought their A-game to keep the state’s top prospect home.
Five-Star 2026 EDGE Anthony Jones Shares Why Kalen DeBoer, Alabama Left Lasting Impression
Over the weekend, five-star 2026 EDGE Anthony Jones visited Alabama’s campus in Tuscaloosa to tour the Crimson Tide’s facilities. He spoke with On3 and had glowing remarks about the program.
5-star EDGE Anthony “Tank” Jones is a top target for Alabama and he was back in Tuscaloosa this weekend.
The visit was “great” as the Tide battles Auburn, Miami, Oregon and Texas A&M.
The latest: https://t.co/s6xA1oIARF (On3+) pic.twitter.com/LIdn2hUm7b
— ChadSimmons (@ChadSimmons_) June 22, 2025
“On this visit, I loved the brotherhood that I saw at Alabama,” Jones said. “The relationships I have with the staff is [sic] something else I like a lot. How I fit into the scheme and their plan for me is something else that stands out at Alabama.”
Jones, ranked No. 16 nationally in the 2026 recruiting class by 247Sports Composite, plays at St. Paul’s Episcopal in Mobile, Alabama. A commitment to Alabama would likely make him a local fan favorite and represent a crucial recruiting victory for DeBoer’s staff.
The EDGE has delivered impressive numbers throughout his high school career. As a junior in 2024, he logged 84 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 16 sacks.
During his sophomore campaign in 2023, he totaled 102 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, seven touchdowns, and five pass breakups. As a freshman in 2022, his first varsity season saw 130 tackles, 15 sacks, two interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), and three receiving touchdowns, showcasing his two-way versatility.
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Alabama traditionally excels on the recruiting trail. In 2025, they secured the nation’s No. 4 class per 247Sports Composite, highlighted by three five-star and 16 four-star recruits. The 2026 cycle, however, has started slowly for the Crimson Tide.
Currently, Alabama sits at No. 45 nationally with seven commits: one five-star, six four-star prospects. The top prospect in that group is cornerback Jorden Edmonds, currently ranked No. 27 overall by 247Sports Composite.
Notably, Alabama has yet to land a linebacker for 2026. Outside linebackers coach Christian Robinson leads Jones’ recruitment and has built a meaningful relationship with him. Jones described their bond as a “father-son relationship” and noted they stay in touch weekly. Robinson’s personal touch has been instrumental in keeping Alabama competitive for the Mobile native’s services.
During a conversation with On3, Jones offered insight into his recruitment. “Alabama is definitely a top school for me,” he said. “My decision is coming soon. It will be about relationships, development on and off the field, the degree, and life after football.”
With over 30 scholarship offers, Jones is being pursued by top programs, including Oregon, Auburn, Miami, and Texas A&M. Unlike many Alabama-based recruits, he’s open to leaving the state, making it critical for the Crimson Tide to capitalize on their recent strong showing.
DeBoer and his staff have positioned Alabama to get the final word in Jones’ recruitment, with his official visit to Tuscaloosa scheduled for June 20-22, the last of his five official visits this summer.
