EJ Crowell wins foot race to score Alabama’s first TD of 2026
By Sydney Hunte
Published:
EJ Crowell’s college career is off to a strong start.
The true freshman, the country’s No. 18 overall recruit in the class of 2026 (according to 247Sports), hopes to become the latest in a long list of elite Alabama running backs. It’s too early to tell if he’ll get there. One thing is for sure: He’s fast.
Crowell showcased that speed on the Crimson Tide’s second drive of the game, one capped by a three-yard touchdown carry that helped them stretch their lead over East Carolina to 10-0.
Watch as Crowell beats his man to the edge and scampers to the end zone:
The first TD of EJ Crowell’s Alabama career pic.twitter.com/Oa8Cdo0iFr
— T.J. Randall (@TJ_Randall12) September 5, 2026
Crowell was ranked as the nation’s No. 1 running back when he signed with Kalen DeBoer and the Tide out of high school. The Jackson, Ala., native was offered by the Tide just weeks after DeBoer was named the program’s head coach in Jan. 2024.
After an official visit in June 2025, Crowell committed to Alabama and enrolled the following January. But an ankle injury hindered his progress during the spring and fall sessions.
He was a game-time decision against East Carolina on Saturday and ultimately was able to give it a go. By the looks of it, his ankle is just fine.
Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.
