Kalen DeBoer and Alabama have made a significant push to try to steal away Tennessee legacy recruit Kenneth Simon II, a 4-star LB in the 2027 recruiting class and the son of former Vols LB Kevin Simon.
While it always figured to be an uphill battle to pluck him out of his home state with his Dad's significant legacy in Knoxville, DeBoer and the Crimson Tide have done an excellent job in this recruitment, positioning themselves as a real contender down the stretch.
Alabama is in Simon's top four, which includes, along with Tennessee, Texas A&M and Ole Miss. But it's always felt like a two-horse race for the nation's No. 9 LB.
Alabama hosted Simon for a visit last week, and the Brentwood Academy LB is closing in on a decision:
Alabama brought in 4-star LB Kenneth Simon for a spring visit last week.
— Blake Byler (@blakebyler45) April 19, 2026
He has Alabama is in his top 4, and hopes to make a decision before OVs.
"When I walked in, everyone was super greeting. ... I was able to build relationship with them."https://t.co/TfEWWRBbeW (On3+) pic.twitter.com/4KeaKuzJW7
Will Kalen DeBoer swipe Tennessee legacy Kenneth Simon away from Josh Heupel?
Despite Simon consistently having good things to say about the Crimson Tide throughout the process, it still feels like Alabama is facing an uphill battle in this recruitment as it enters the final stretch.
Simon hasn't officially set up official visits for the summer, and he may not. He appears to be nearing his final decision.
Alabama has given him a lot to think about, and his frame and athleticism, combined with his safety skills, make him an intriguing fit in Kane Wommack's defensive system. No doubt they've significantly pushed a Justin Jefferson-like role for Simon in Tuscaloosa.
He'll need to put on some weight when he gets to college, but that shouldn't be a problem with his frame. He's got the sideline-to-sideline speed and instincts that coaches dream about when it comes to linebacker play, and that's why he's been such a high priority for the Alabama staff despite knowing how challenging his recruitment would be with his Tennessee ties.
But DeBoer and GM Courtney Morgan have consistently won recruiting battles they were counted out on. This would be one of the most satisfying if they can get it done.
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