Alabama beats out USC, Ohio State for 4-star CB Zabien Brown: What could he bring to Tuscaloosa?
Alabama football picked up a trio of commitments on Sunday, highlighted by four-star cornerback Zabien Brown. Here’s what you need to know:
- The Santa Ana, Calif. native, chose Alabama over USC and Ohio State. He was the last official visitor in June before the July dead period, and that momentum carried over and resulted in a commitment.
- Brown, listed at 6-foot and 180 pounds, is the No. 7 cornerback in the 2024 class, according to the 247Sports Composite.
- He’s the third defensive back commitment in Alabama’s 2024 class, joining five-star Jaylen Mbakwe and four-star Jameer Grimsley.
- In addition to Brown, the Crimson Tide landed 2024 three-star linebacker Justin Okoronkwo from Germany, who decommitted from Maryland on Saturday, and 2026 offensive lineman Zykie Helton from Carrollton, Ga.
The Athletic’s instant analysis:
What it means for Alabama
Brown’s commitment adds to one of the best cornerback hauls in the 2024 class, a significant need for Alabama given the attrition during spring practice and expected entries in the 2024 class. Brown hails from the prestigious Mater Dei High School, the same program the produced Bryce Young. The program plays one of the most competitive schedules in the country, Brown’s been a two-year starter for the Monarchs and he has been tested against some of the best high school receivers.
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Brown’s highlight tape shows a proficiency in man coverage, both off-man and in press; a style that should marry well with new defensive coordinator Kevin Steele. He’ll need to add strength to become a consistent tackler in the SEC but is sound from a technical standpoint and has shown good instincts in breaking on the ball, evident in his team-leading three interceptions last season.
Second-year cornerbacks coach Travaris Robinson’s 2024 class is filling out nicely after an impressive 2023 haul.
Other commitments
The month of July was expected to be a busy one, and so far Alabama’s secured four commitments in the first nine days. Here are a few other commitment dates to watch out for:
- Four-star offensive lineman Case Poe, who will announce on July 12, has a Top 7 that includes Alabama, Auburn, Clemson and Georgia, among others.
- Four-star tight end Caleb Odom, announcing on July 15, is deciding between Alabama, Florida, Miami, Ole Miss and Texas A&M.
- Five-star linebacker Demarcus Riddick is a Georgia commit making a final decision on July 26, . He’s a flip candidate to Alabama or Auburn.
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(Photo: Michael Wade / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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