Just In: Saban’s Superstars: Uncovering the Highest-Ranked Recruits in Alabama’s Dynasty
Throughout his storied career as head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide, Nick Saban has been a dominant force on the recruiting trail. From 2007 to 2023, Saban’s tenure at Alabama was marked by an unrelenting pursuit of talent, consistently landing some of the most coveted prospects in the nation. Each recruiting cycle brought a new wave of high school stars to Tuscaloosa, many of whom went on to leave an indelible mark on Alabama football. This post delves into the highest-ranked member of each recruiting class during Saban’s era at Alabama, showcasing their journey from recruitment to their contributions on the field.
The 2007 recruiting class was notable for its introduction of Michael Ricks, a highly-regarded safety from Northeast Mississippi Community College. Ricks, rated as a 4-star safety and the top junior college safety, was expected to bring immediate impact to the Crimson Tide’s secondary. However, his time at Alabama did not pan out as anticipated, and his impact on the field remained minimal, with no significant stats to show for his stint at the university.
Transitioning to 2008, Alabama secured one of the most electrifying wide receivers in the nation, Julio Jones. Hailing from Foley, Alabama, Jones was a 5-star prospect and the top wide receiver in his class. His career at Alabama was nothing short of spectacular. Over three seasons, Jones amassed 179 receptions for 2,653 yards and 15 touchdowns. Additionally, he contributed in other facets of the game, including rushing for 139 yards and two touchdowns, and returning punts and kicks. Jones’s blend of size, speed, and skill made him a game-changer and solidified his place in Alabama’s football lore.
The 2009 class saw the arrival of Trent Richardson, a 5-star running back from Escambia, Florida. Richardson, ranked as the second-best running back nationally, made an immediate impact in Alabama’s backfield. Over his three seasons, he rushed for 3,130 yards and 35 touchdowns, showcasing his power and agility. His contributions were crucial to Alabama’s success, and he became one of the most dominant running backs in college football during his time with the Crimson Tide.
In 2010, the spotlight fell on Dee Milliner, a 5-star cornerback from Stanhope Elmore, Alabama. Milliner, the top cornerback in his class, was known for his exceptional coverage skills and physical play. During his tenure, he compiled 132 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and six interceptions. His defensive prowess was instrumental in Alabama’s national championship victories, and he earned a reputation as one of the best cornerbacks in college football during his career.
The 2011 recruiting class featured Cyrus Kouandjio, a 5-star offensive tackle from DeMatha Catholic, Maryland. Kouandjio was highly anticipated as the top offensive tackle prospect in his class. While his stats at Alabama are not well-documented, Kouandjio’s contributions were significant. He became a multi-year starter along the offensive line, helping to anchor a line that was crucial for Alabama’s continued success.
Landon Collins was the crown jewel of the 2012 recruiting class. The 5-star safety from Dutchtown, Louisiana, ranked as the second-best safety in the country, was known for his hard-hitting style and playmaking ability. Collins’s career at Alabama was marked by his impressive statistics, including 188 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and five interceptions. His defensive presence was a key component of Alabama’s defense and helped the team secure another national championship.
The 2013 class brought Reuben Foster, a 5-star linebacker from Auburn, Alabama. Foster was celebrated as the top linebacker prospect in his class and lived up to the hype with his dynamic playmaking ability. Over his career, he recorded 222 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and eight sacks. Foster’s aggressive and relentless style made him one of the most formidable linebackers in college football, and his impact was felt throughout his time with the Crimson Tide.
In 2014, Cam Robinson, a 5-star offensive tackle from West Monroe, Louisiana, was the highest-ranked recruit. Robinson, a top offensive tackle prospect, was expected to be a cornerstone of Alabama’s offensive line. Although specific statistics from his time at Alabama are not readily available, Robinson’s role as a multi-year starter was critical in maintaining the strength and stability of Alabama’s offensive line, contributing to the team’s continued dominance.
Calvin Ridley, a 5-star wide receiver from Monarch, Florida, was the top recruit in the 2015 class. Ridley, ranked as the top wide receiver, made an immediate impact with his playmaking ability. His career at Alabama was marked by 224 receptions, 2,781 yards, and 19 touchdowns. Ridley’s speed and hands made him a favorite target in Alabama’s passing game, and he played a crucial role in the team’s offensive success.
The 2016 recruiting class featured Ben Davis, a 5-star linebacker from Gordo, Alabama. Davis was known for his high football IQ and athleticism, earning him the top linebacker spot in his class. While his time at Alabama was less productive than some of his predecessors, he contributed with seven tackles, one tackle for loss, and one sack. Davis’s role, while not as prominent as others, was still an important part of the depth and talent of Alabama’s defense.
Najee Harris, the 5-star running back from Antioch, California, was the standout recruit of the 2017 class. Ranked as the top running back, Harris’s career at Alabama was stellar. Over three seasons, he rushed for 3,843 yards and 46 touchdowns. His versatility as a runner and receiver—adding 80 receptions for 781 yards and 11 touchdowns—made him one of the most dynamic offensive players in college football and a key player in Alabama’s continued success.
The 2018 recruiting class was highlighted by Eyabi Okie-Anoma, a 5-star edge rusher from St. Frances Academy, Maryland. Okie-Anoma, ranked as the top edge rusher, was expected to bring a significant pass-rushing threat to Alabama. Unfortunately, his time with the Crimson Tide was limited, and he only recorded nine tackles and two tackles for loss before moving on.
Antonio Alfano, another 5-star edge rusher, was the top recruit in the 2019 class. Hailing from Colonia, New Jersey, Alfano was highly touted as the number one edge rusher. However, his stint at Alabama did not materialize as expected, and he did not see any playing time with the Crimson Tide before transferring.
Bryce Young, the 5-star quarterback from Mater Dei, California, was the marquee recruit of the 2020 class. Young, who was the top quarterback prospect, lived up to his billing with a standout career at Alabama. He compiled impressive statistics, including a completion percentage of 65.8%, 8,356 passing yards, and an 80:12 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Young’s exceptional performance as a quarterback was instrumental in Alabama’s offensive success and solidified his status as one of the top quarterbacks in college football.
The 2021 recruiting class featured JC Latham, a 5-star offensive tackle from IMG Academy, Florida. Latham, ranked as the top offensive tackle, was anticipated to be a key player on Alabama’s offensive line. Like some of his predecessors, specific stats for Latham are less documented, but his role as a multi-year starter along the offensive line was crucial for maintaining the team’s strength and protection for the quarterback.
Jeremiah Alexander, the top edge rusher from Thompson, Alabama, was the standout recruit of the 2022 class. Ranked as the number one edge rusher, Alexander’s contributions to Alabama’s defense began with four tackles during his early years with the team. His potential and athleticism suggest he will be a significant player for Alabama in the future.
Finally, the 2023 recruiting class brought Keon Keeley, a 5-star edge rusher from Berkeley Prep, Florida. Keeley, ranked as the top edge rusher and the second overall prospect, was highly anticipated to make an impact. As he is still in his early years with the Crimson Tide, his contributions are yet to be fully realized, but his potential is evident and eagerly awaited.
Each of these highest-ranked recruits from Nick Saban’s recruiting classes at Alabama represents a chapter in the Crimson Tide’s storied success. From game-changing wide receivers and dominant defensive players to standout quarterbacks and linemen, these athletes have each played a role in continuing Alabama’s legacy of excellence. The journey from recruitment to impact on the field underscores the meticulous and successful approach Saban has employed throughout his tenure, solidifying Alabama’s place at the pinnacle of college football.
