“Rising Tide: 5 Alabama Freshmen Ready to Shake Up the Depth Chart in 2024 – An Impressive Feat”

Alabama football has pulled off an impressive feat, securing a top-five recruiting class for 2025 despite challenges. Head coach Kalen DeBoer and his staff got a late start after Nick Saban’s retirement in January and a wave of de-commitments. Yet, they managed to rebuild the class, showcasing their recruiting prowess.

As the Early Signing Period unfolds, Alabama might still add more talent, like Derek Meadows, but let’s focus on the five signees most likely to push for significant playing time as freshmen. Notably, two junior college recruits, DL Steve Mboumoua and EDGE Kevonte Henry, are excluded from this list since JUCO players are typically expected to contribute immediately.

5. Lotzeir Brooks, WR, Millville, NJ

A 4-star prospect, Lotzeir Brooks is one of the most underrated wide receivers in the class. Ranked as the No. 29 WR in the 247 composite, Brooks has elite speed and set numerous New Jersey state receiving records before his senior year.

With Kobe Prentice entering the transfer portal and potentially more departures from Alabama’s deep receiver group, Brooks could carve out an early role, particularly as a return specialist. His speed and playmaking ability make him a strong candidate to contribute immediately.

4. Dijon Lee, CB, Mission Viejo, CA

A 5-star recruit, Dijon Lee is one of the top cornerback prospects in the nation. At 6’4”, he brings size, versatility, and physicality to Alabama’s secondary.

Lee will face stiff competition from freshmen standouts like Zabien Brown and Jaylen Mbakwe, as well as potential returnees like Domani Jackson. However, his ability to play multiple roles in the secondary, including at the Husky position, makes him a strong contender for significant playing time.

3. AK Dear, RB, Quinton, MS

Ranked as the No. 2 running back in the nation, AK Dear is a dynamic playmaker. Despite the presence of several returning backs like Jam Miller, Justice Haynes, and Richard Young, roster movement through the NFL Draft or transfer portal could create opportunities for Dear.

With his elite skill set and Alabama’s history of utilizing talented freshmen running backs, Dear could emerge as an immediate contributor.

2. Keelon Russell, QB, Duncanville, TX

The No. 2 overall prospect in the 2025 class, Keelon Russell is Alabama’s quarterback of the future—and perhaps the present.

With Jalen Milroe likely heading to the NFL, Alabama’s quarterback depth chart is wide open. While Ty Simpson is the expected successor, his limited flashes of potential leave room for competition. Washington transfer Austin Mack and third-year player Dylan Lonergan could also factor in, but Russell’s talent and poise may make him the frontrunner to start as a true freshman.

1. Michael Carroll, IOL, IMG Academy

Michael Carroll, a 5-star interior offensive lineman, might be the most ready-to-play recruit in Alabama’s 2025 class. At 6’6” and 315 pounds, Carroll combines size, technical skill, and a fierce demeanor that mirrors Tyler Booker, who is expected to declare for the draft.

With multiple openings on Alabama’s offensive line, Carroll is poised to compete for starting roles, either at guard or right tackle. His advanced skill set and physicality make him a strong candidate to start on day one.

DeBoer’s willingness to give freshmen early opportunities, combined with this talented class, could lead to immediate contributions from these rising stars. The future looks bright in Tuscaloosa.