
🐘 Crimson Reloaded: 5-Star RB Ezavier “EJ” Crowell Commits to Alabama’s 2026 Class After Reclassifying…read more…
The future is now for Alabama Football.
On June 26, 2025, the Crimson Tide landed one of the most explosive commitments of the summer when 5-star running back Ezavier “EJ” Crowell announced both his reclassification to the 2026 cycle and his commitment to Alabama. The decision sent shockwaves across the recruiting landscape and further cemented Alabama’s resurgent presence under head coach Kalen DeBoer.
With Crowell on board, Alabama has taken a major step toward restoring its legacy as RBU — Running Back University — and fans in Tuscaloosa have every reason to get excited.
⚡ Who is EJ Crowell?
Ezavier “EJ” Crowell is a dynamic 6-foot, 205-pound tailback out of Long Beach, California. A former member of the 2027 class, Crowell has spent the past year dominating varsity competition at a pace that defied his age group.
He entered the national conversation in early 2024 after a 2,100-yard junior season in which he racked up 30 touchdowns, showcasing a rare combination of power, agility, and breakaway speed. But what separates Crowell from many of his peers isn’t just raw talent — it’s football IQ and a relentless work ethic.
By spring 2025, whispers emerged that Crowell was academically and physically mature enough to jump ahead to the 2026 class. After consulting with his family and coaching staff, he made it official — reclassifying and choosing Alabama over heavyweights like Georgia, Oregon, Michigan, and USC.
🐘 Why Alabama?
Crowell’s commitment is a huge win for Kalen DeBoer, RBs coach Robert Gillespie, and the entire Crimson Tide staff. Alabama made Crowell feel like a top priority early, flying out west multiple times and rolling out the red carpet during his official visit in early June.
In a statement released on his Instagram, Crowell wrote:
“After prayer and long conversations with my family and coaches, I’m proud to announce that I’m committing to the University of Alabama. Bama felt like home the moment I stepped on campus. I’m ready to work, ready to win. Roll Tide!”
Behind the scenes, insiders credit Gillespie for building a strong relationship with both Crowell and his family. Gillespie’s track record of developing backs like Najee Harris, Brian Robinson, and Jahmyr Gibbs was reportedly a major factor.
The Tide’s commitment to developing backs for the NFL — with nine running backs drafted since 2015 — made Alabama the natural choice.
🔍 Scouting Report: Complete Package
Here’s how recruiting analysts describe EJ Crowell:
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Vision & Patience: Reads blocks like a veteran; rarely rushes to the hole and sets up his linemen effectively.
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Explosiveness: Elite first step; gets to top speed within seconds, capable of hitting home runs from anywhere.
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Physicality: Runs with great pad level and finishes through contact. Doesn’t shy away from collisions.
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Receiving Threat: Soft hands and clean route-running out of the backfield; can line up in the slot.
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Work Ethic: Known for studying film, staying after practice, and leading by example.
Rivals currently ranks him as the No. 2 running back nationally in the 2026 class, while 247Sports gives him a five-star grade with a composite score of 0.9896.
🔮 Depth Chart Impact: Future of the Backfield
Alabama’s running back room for 2025 is strong, featuring returners like Justice Haynes and Richard Young, with transfer additions providing depth.
But with Haynes likely to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, and other players either graduating or transferring, Crowell walks into a perfect situation to compete early.
Analysts project Crowell to compete for reps as early as his true freshman year, especially given his all-purpose skill set. Alabama offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan may look to build packages around his talents — particularly in split-back formations or RPOs where Crowell can motion out wide.
🔥 Momentum Builder: 2026 Class Rising Fast
Crowell’s commitment has helped vault Alabama’s 2026 class into the Top 5 nationally, according to On3 and 247Sports. Other top names joining him include:
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Jett Thomalla (4★ QB from Arizona)
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Jireh Edwards (5★ safety from Georgia)
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Nolan Wilson (Top-100 EDGE from Mississippi)
The message is clear: Alabama isn’t rebuilding — they’re reloading.
And Crowell’s decision may have a domino effect. His close friendships with several uncommitted West Coast prospects could tilt the scales in Alabama’s favor. Expect more blue-chips to follow.
🎙️ What They’re Saying
Coach Kalen DeBoer (via Bama Athletics):
“EJ is the kind of player who changes a game with one touch. He fits the Alabama standard both on and off the field, and we’re excited to see what he brings to the future of our program.”
Analyst Josh Pate (247Sports):
“Crowell is a rare find — reclassifying and still ahead of the curve physically. Alabama got a future All-SEC back here.”
Paul Finebaum (ESPN):
“Alabama is reminding the world they’re still the top dog. This kid Crowell is a monster.”
🏁 Final Word
The Tide’s latest haul isn’t just about stars on paper — it’s about identifying elite competitors who want to carry the Alabama tradition forward.
Ezavier “EJ” Crowell is more than just another five-star. He’s a statement — that Alabama is alive, hungry, and ready to dominate again. With one of the most complete skillsets of any back in recent years, he could soon join the pantheon of Crimson greats.
Roll Tide.
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