3 true freshmen to watch for Alabama football during 2026 season

Alabama will have a multitude of talented freshmen on both sides of the football throughout the 2026 campaign.

The Tide are widely considered to have one of the top 2026 recruiting classes in the country. Alabama’s offense will feature an extremely talented freshman in running back EJ Crowell, among others, as the Tide will likely turn to numerous rising stars to compete at a high level next season.

Here’s a look at three of Alabama’s top freshman to know entering the 2026 campaign.

EJ Crowell, Running Back

Crowell is widely regarded as one of the top running back prospects from the class of 2026. The talented playmaker was originally a member of the class of 2027 before reclassifying to 2026, as Crowell could be an instant contributor in the Tide’s backfield this season.

Crowell was nothing short of elite throughout the entirety of his career at in-state Jackson High School, as the talented running back could easily shine throughout his first season in Tuscaloosa.

April 7, 2026; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Linebacker Xavier Griffin runs a drill during Spring Practice at the University of Alabama.

Xavier Griffin, Linebacker

Griffin is an extremely talented linebacker that could emerge with an instant role on the Tide’s defensive line next season. A five-star recruit, per 247Sports, Griffin was a massive addition to Alabama’s 2026 class as he will more than likely thrive throughout his first year with the Tide.

Griffin drew serious interest from a multitude of programs across the country, but the playmaker will ultimately find himself playing a pivotal role on the Crimson Tide defense next season.