Three standout recruits from Alabama’s 2023 class are all aiming to make a significant impact in their second year in Tuscaloosa.
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — As has been the trend over the past decade and a half, Alabama’s 2023 recruiting class was ranked No. 1 in the nation. This class, which included last season’s freshmen, saw several players make an immediate impact, such as Caleb Downs and Kadyn Proctor. Others, like Justice Haynes and Jalen Hale, made notable contributions despite limited playing time.
However, not all recruits find immediate success. At a program like Alabama, where the roster is filled with blue-chip prospects, even 5-star recruits can get buried on the depth chart, making it challenging for first-year players to see the field.
On the defensive side, Alabama has three former 5-star recruits from the 2023 class who have bulked up in preparation for their second year in Tuscaloosa, positioning themselves for more playing time.
One such player is defensive end Keon Keeley, a top-5 recruit in his class. Keeley arrived at Alabama as an edge rusher/outside linebacker but has since added 35 pounds and transitioned to defensive end, or “bandit” in Kane Wommack’s defensive scheme.
“Keon has a very special skillset. He’s very strong at the point of attack and surprisingly agile for his size,” Wommack said of Keeley. “He’s adapting well to his new role, which is a big change from being an outside linebacker, and he’s made significant strides since spring.”
Defensive line coach Freddie Roach also commented on Keeley’s progress, emphasizing the need for continued development. “He’s a big, athletic guy, and our focus is on helping him become the best player he can be,” Roach said. He also highlighted the differences Keeley is adapting to between playing outside linebacker and defensive end, noting the increased physical demands of the latter position.
The other two former defensive 5-stars from the 2023 class are outside linebackers Qua Russaw and Yhonzae Pierre, both playing the “wolf” position in Wommack’s scheme. Russaw, an in-state recruit, has made significant progress after transitioning from inside linebacker in high school to outside linebacker in college. Wommack praised Russaw’s physical abilities and growing confidence, while his position coach, Christian Robinson, expressed excitement about his potential impact this season.
Pierre, another in-state recruit, has also added significant weight and is now over 250 pounds. Wommack commended Pierre’s athleticism and growing physicality, noting his improvement in setting the edge and making plays during fall camp.
With Keeley, Russaw, and Pierre receiving high praise from their coaches, it appears they are poised to contribute meaningfully in the upcoming season. Their development as redshirt freshmen underscores the depth and talent that continues to define Alabama’s roster.
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