2023 College Football Class Review: Alabama

DL Yhonzae Pierre (Eufaula, AL) commits to Alabama  View Class

Pierre (6-3, 220) received some high praise in the days before his commitment. He is a natural pass rusher who is a little raw, but very athletic and should eventually fit right into that hybrid defensive end/outside linebacker role in which many great Alabama defenders have been spotlighted. Pierre has the long arms and the burst to get around the edge. I would like to see him play at a better pad level. He comes in a little high at times and a little too low at others. It might take Pierre 2-3 years to really find his game, but the upside is worth the patience.

Yhonzae Pierre's Player Grade: B

CB Jahlil Hurley (Florence, AL) commits to Alabama  View Class

Alabama has officially entered the 2023 recruiting race with Hurley (6-2, 175), one of the top 3-5 cornerbacks in the class and a top-50 player overall. Hurley is a smooth operator in the defensive backfield. The way he runs almost looks like he's running on air. Hurley is a master with ball skills. He reads and recognizes the route quickly and is always in position to make a play on the ball. He has some physicality to his game and the speed to offer some options on special teams.

Jahlil Hurley's Player Grade: A

S Elliot Washington (Venice, FL) commits to Alabama  View Class

It's a family affair for Washington (6-1, 191), who will play at Alabama much like his father did in the '90s. The difference is his father, Elliot Sr., did his thing on the basketball court. The younger Washington is a great athlete, but there's no doubt that he is much more comfortable on the football field. He is a safety with some crossover skills that might give him opportunities to line up at cornerback. Washington is very fluid and smooth with his movement. He runs so smoothly it almost looks like he's gliding. Washington is battle tested and plays for one of the best programs in the region.

Elliot Washington's Player Grade: B+