Top Five Recruiting Targets for Alabama in 2018
Due to the immense success Nick Saban has enjoyed in Tuscaloosa, the Alabama football program recruits itself.
It’s almost to a point where the Crimson Tide can pick and choose who they want amidst an array of talented high school prospects.
Alabama has routinely finished at the top of the 247Sports recruiting rankings since Saban took over. In fact, ‘Bama has finished No. 1 nationally for the last seven years (dating back to 2011).
The current 2018 recruiting cycle is no different. Alabama has only four commitments — yet still ranks No. 11 nationally. Saban is a master when it comes to closing. Alabama often garners pledges towards the end of the cycle.
With that said, this piece will look at Alabama’s top five targets within the 2018 class. It will be based upon the 247Sports composite rankings.
White is regarded as the No. 1 running back in the country, and the No. 3 player overall.
The North Carolina native has an exceptional burst out of the backfield. When White sees a crease, he’s able to jet through the hole and explode into space. At 5-foot-11, 195 pounds, he’s also equipped with the requisite size needed to contribute right away.
Clemson and Georgia appear to be the early front-runners, but Alabama certainly cannot be counted out — particularly with ‘Bama’s penchant for developing running backs.
DB Patrick Surtain Jr.
The son of a former NFL defensive back, Surtain Jr. is a very technically-sound player. He pairs terrific technique with a great frame and elite athleticism. It’s not a surprise that Surtain Jr. is ranked as the nation’s best corner back.
The 6-foot-2 defender hails from Fort Lauderdale. While Florida State and Alabama are involved, LSU appears (for the moment) to be the favorite. Surtain Jr. did recently meet with Saban. Considering his track record with defensive backs, Alabama will remain a core option.
The nation’s top tackle is an immensely gifted player.
Carman stands at 6-foot-6, 290 pounds. Though he’s already physically impressive, he’s got a frame to easily put on another 20 pounds without compromising his athleticism.
He’s a native of Ohio, and thus Ohio State is all over him. However, Saban has met with him, and Alabama figures to be in it until the end for Carman’s services.
OG Jamaree Salyer
Salyer is the nation’s top guard prospect. An absolute mauler up front, the Georgia native excels in the run game.
The 6-foot-3, 327-pound athlete has offers from all across the Southeast region. Kirby Smart is making him an obvious target, though Alabama is right there. He compares favorably to former Crimson Tide star Chance Warmack.
DT Taron Vincent
Hailing from IMG Academy in Florida, Vincent is an unquestioned national recruit.
He isn’t the biggest defensive tackle at 285 pounds, but he’s supremely quick and very powerful. Florida State and Ohio State stand out as the two early favorites, with Clemson and Alabama also falling within the top four.
Vincent — the son of former NFL DB Troy Vincent — is originally from Baltimore. He transferred to IMG Academy as a junior.
