At this point, it's really starting to feel like it's only going to be a matter of time before Alabama football grabs the commitment of 5-star linebacker Xavier Griffin. As soon as he and USC parted ways, buzz came in that the Tide were the favorites.
Things were only helped out here when Griffin decided to cancel his official visit to Georgia to meet with Kirby Smart at the last second. Come June 6, the 6-3, 200-pounder is all set to take his OV to Tuscaloosa to meet with Kalen DeBoer and his staff.
Leading up to that trip, it sure feels like the Tide have a ton of momentum in pulling off one of the biggest flips of the year. According to 247Sports insider Tom Loy, Alabama indeed is the main team to watch for Griffin moving forward:
Who is leading for 5-star LB Xavier Griffin? ⭐️@TomLoy247 says the Alabama Crimson Tide have the edge on the No. 8 overall prospect https://t.co/iUm1RUoSaZ
— 247Sports (@247Sports) May 19, 2025
Alabama is the clear favorite for 5-star LB Xavier Griffin after his USC decommitment
It's hard to see that update from Loy and not get excited. DeBoer is looking to make a splash here and he'd no question send a statement if Griffin jumps on board for the 2026 group. Griffin is the textbook definition of an elite prospect - he holds 38 offers to his name.
According to 247Sports, the Georgia product is ranked five stars, the No. 1 linebacker in the country and the No. 8 player nationally. He's no doubt one of the best standouts out there, which is why so many people remain a bit surprised he's no longer USC-bound. What happened with Lincoln Riley?
Despite that, Alabama has upped its efforts in trying to turn Griffin's head. Thus far, it sure looks like DeBoer is getting the job done in that department. There's no set date for when Griffin will shut things down for a second time, but this upcoming visit to Tuscaloosa could prove to be massive for how things go down. Alabama fans are confident DeBoer will land the 5-star 'backer and for good reason.