Alabama Shocks the Nation with Stunning 5-Star Victory Over Texas and Georgia—What It Means for College Football’s Future

When you think about Alabama football, the image is rarely anything less than dominant — yet this year, their 2026 recruiting class was gasping for a spark. Enter Ezavier “E.J.” Crowell, a five-star running back who just flipped the script by choosing the Crimson Tide over the heavy hitters Texas and Georgia. Now, here’s a thought: can one player really silence the swirling doubts around Kalen DeBoer’s recruiting mojo? Crowell isn’t just another name on the list; he’s the first five-star offensive linchpin of this class, a local treasure from Jackson High, packing serious heat at 6-foot, 215 pounds. His blend of speed, power, and elusive moves promises to change the recruiting narrative and maybe, just maybe, kickstart a new era for ‘Bama’s offense. Curious to dive in deeper? LEARN MORE.

Alabama football needed any type of jolt to ignite its 2026 recruiting class. Kalen DeBoer also needed to seal one more five-star to temper the criticism. Mission accomplished — as ‘Bama beat Texas and Georgia for this talent.

Five-star running back Ezavier “E.J.” Crowell is Tuscaloosa bound. Crowell announced his decision to verbally commit to the Tide Thursday. Hayes Fawcett of On3 confirmed Alabama’s Southeastern Conference rivals were in the final running. Even Alabama’s fiercest rival Auburn missed out on landing Crowell.

But his commitment becomes massive for DeBoer and company. DeBoer had Robert Gillespie leading the charge to land Crowell. The RB rises as the first five-star offensive player pledged to Alabama’s 2026 recruiting class. Five-star cornerback Jorden Edmonds chose Alabama in March.

DeBoer and his staff faced harsh criticism for producing questionable recruiting results compared to his predecessor Nick Saban. The multiple national title winner Saban made it a habit to nab a hefty amount of five and four-star talent. DeBoer and the coaching staff finally reeled in their newest big fish for the offense via the ’26 class.

Alabama pulls off massive in-state win with 5-star addition

Crowell is more than a five-star find. He’s a significant local get for the Tide.

Crowell stars for nearby Jackson High. He also became the state’s No. 3 ranked prospect but the nation’s No. 2 overall RB by 247Sports composite.

Cooper Petegna of 247Sports raved about the big 6-foot, 215-pounder’s game. He delivered this prospect evaluation. 

“Estimated north of 200-pounds, the Yellowhammer native exhibits the ability to play in both a zone or power scheme at the next level,” Petegna began. “He possesses the short area speed and acceleration to consistently get to the edge on Friday nights.”

Petegna added that Crowell is a “shifty mover with good short area quickness and change of direction ability.” Crowell can make defenders miss and brings the contact balance that makes him hard to tussle down.

DeBoer and ‘Bama have endured notable losses on the trail. Minnesota beat out Alabama for four-star athlete Roman Voss on June 23. Even four-star Justice Fitzpatrick spurned Alabama, best known as the younger brother of Tide legend and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah.

But the Tide is turning. Javari Barnett flipped from Illinois to Alabama on June 23. Alabama also landed ex-Rutgers commit Rihyael Kelley on the same day. Crowell adds new intrigue for ‘Bama’s future.

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