Alabama Football: Still DL concerns after Edric Hill commitment?

As most Alabama football fans can attest, the Tide’s 2023 class needs more defensive linemen. On Monday evening, the Crimson Tide added 4-Star, Edric Hill. After missing on some other defensive linemen in the 2023 class, some Alabama fans might not be excited about Hill, who as rated by the 247Sports Composite, is the No. 183 player overall and No. 45 among the DLs.

Those rankings should not be denigrated. LSU, Oregon, USC, Oklahoma and Missouri, along with many other programs wanted to land Hill. Even more significant, based on workouts in Tuscaloosa, the Alabama football staff rated Hill much higher.

Having Peter Woods commit to Clemson, and Kelby Collins choose Florida has disappointed Alabama football fans. Both are flip targets for the Crimson Tide. But the Tide’s 2023 class will be outstanding if neither flips later in the cycle. And that outstanding status includes the defensive line.

So far, Alabama has added 4-Star, Hunter Osborne and Edric Hill. More will join the 2023 class. Most recruiting experts believe the Crimson Tide has a big lead for 5-Star, James Smith. Another 4-Star, Daevin Hobbs, once considered a lock to North Carolina is believed to be mainly focused on Alabama and Georgia. JUCO, Elijah Davis may become a recruit from whom the Crimson Tide is willing to accept a commitment.

Another name to consider is highly rated 4-Star, Jordan Renaud, who is believed to be down to the Crimson Tide or Oklahoma. Renaud could play defensive end or jack linebacker for the Crimson Tide.

Edric Hill is a mobile, big guy. Now at 290 pounds, earlier in his high school career, he has played tight end and linebacker.

Choosing Alabama Football

As reported by Tide Illustrated, Hill explained why he chose the Crimson Tide.

"Why Alabama? it’s simple. I want to be a part of something great,” said Hill. “The people there love football; they love winning, and the players they’ve been able to produce over the years have been incredible. If you take a moment to look at every player they have in the league, including starters, bench players, and superstars – it’s ridiculous. I also feel like they did a great job with my family, keeping things genuine. They won over my family, which was important to me, and honestly, that helped seal the deal."

One reason why some defensive linemen may not view an Alabama football opportunity quite as favorably is the Tide’s success with edge rushers and linebackers. The predominant formations used by Pete Golding and Nick Saban don’t require as many interior players in a rotation, compared to past defenses.

Alabama might sign as many as five defensive linemen in this cycle, but the Tide will be fine if it is only four.