When change happens in the college football world , fans, players, parents can get nervous, but new Alabama head football coach Kalen DeBoer and his staff have done quite a job so far after taking over for Nick Saban.
After accepting the head coaching position, lots of people were not sure what would happen, especially when it comes to recruiting, as DeBoer has not necessarily been known for having ties to the south or some other areas that Alabama is used to. So far though, things are looking up.
One of the players that Alabama has made an impact on, is rising 2025 4-star wide receiver, Travis Smith. Jr. After attending Junior Day in Tuscaloosa, I was able to catch up with Smith Jr. and talk more about his trip.
When originally asked how it went, Travis mentioned, "It went Great... the staff was great from Medical to academic. The facility blew me away. The state of the art sports science and equipment they have is crazy. ". It was one of many positive things heard about Junior Day for the Tide from Smith Jr.
The 4-star receiver is from Atlanta, GA, and is notorious for having a long reach at 6'4, 195lb, and that appears to be the type of receiver the Tide staff is going after. DeBoer and the rest of his staff that came from Washington are used to having physical, freak athletes at receiver and would like to continue its tradition of breeding top-notch receivers.
Not only has Deboer been doing a solid job, but new Crimson Tide wide receiver coach,JaMarcus Shephard, sat down 1-on1 with Smith and Smith mentioned "I had a chance to talk more in depth with the coaches primarily Coach Shepherd on why he has been so successful with his receivers offer the past few years. Him and Coach Deboer came up to my school last week so this visit was an up close and personal engagement on all aspects of Bama culture and what they look for."
After his sit down with Alabama coaches, the stand out 2025 receiver was offered by Alabama. When asked if Alabama has a chance at landing his commitment, "Potentially... They are on my list for sure", Smith said. "We're extremely excited and thankful to be offered".
Next, Smith told me he will release his Top 8, followed by committing right before his senior year.
Note: Personal characteristics are via On3.com