In a dominating performance during the 2025 recruiting cycle, Auburn took full advantage of a unique situation to control in-state football recruiting, leaving Alabama and Kalen DeBoer struggling to catch up with many key recruits. Under the leadership of Hugh Freeze, Auburn signed eight of the top 10 players in the state of Alabama, according to the 247 composite rankings. The two players who didn’t stay in-state both signed with out-of-state programs: one headed to Oregon and the other to Ohio State.
Meanwhile, Alabama secured only two top players from within the state: 4-star OT Micah DeBose and 3-star DB Mal Waldrep. The coaching change in Tuscaloosa left Alabama in a tough position, but they still managed to secure a higher-ranked recruiting class overall compared to Auburn, based on all major recruiting services.
However, DeBoer and GM Courtney Morgan know they can’t afford to rest on their laurels if they want to dominate in-state recruiting going forward. Over the past week, DeBoer’s staff has been hitting the road hard, and it’s clear their primary focus is on the 2026 recruiting class, where Alabama has so far managed just a single commitment: 4-star CB Zyan Gibson, who pledged to the Crimson Tide in December. Gibson is ranked among the top 100 players in the state, one of seven such players for the 2026 cycle, according to 247.
Despite Alabama’s national status and ongoing success under Nick Saban, which continues to make the program a top destination for recruits across the country, DeBoer is determined to change the narrative in his home state. The 2026 class features some major in-state talents, including potential future 5-stars: WR Cederian Morgan from Alexander City and DE Anthony Jones from Mobile. Alabama will undoubtedly make a strong push for both players, and there is also DL Vodney Cleveland from Birmingham, who decommitted from Alabama in December but is still considering a return to the Tide.
Auburn fans may be optimistic about repeating their in-state dominance in the 2026 cycle, but DeBoer and his staff have already proven they can recruit with the best. The 2026 cycle, while still incredibly competitive, will likely show that Alabama’s presence in-state is far from over, and the state’s recruiting future remains firmly crimson.
