With the 2028 recruiting picture starting to come into focus, Alabama is already making noise with one of the class’s top defensive line targets.
The Crimson Tide have three commitments in the 2028 class so far: three-star quarterback Charles Scott Jr., three-star linebacker Dustin Henry and four-star defensive back Braylen Gibbs. Now, Alabama is pushing hard for four-star defensive lineman Chase “CT” Foster, and the early signs are encouraging.
Foster, who plays at IMG Academy in Florida after transferring there following his freshman season at Dutchtown High School in Georgia, told Alabama On SI that the Tide have made a strong impression.
“Alabama is sticking out to me. The coaches have shown a lot of interest in me, and I liked how they coached me up during a workout," Foster said.
One name in particular has caught his attention.
“Coach Roach is a great defensive line coach, and he develops defensive lineman that can dominate.”
Foster is also hoping to make it to Alabama’s game against Florida State in the fall, though he’s still waiting on confirmation before locking that visit in.
It’s still early, and Foster isn’t planning to make a decision anytime soon. Even so, Alabama’s ability to get in early matters, especially after the way the 2027 cycle has shown just how valuable those first impressions can be.
The Tide may also be trending with another 2028 target. Quarterback Kingston Preyear is set to announce his commitment on July 10 and will choose between Alabama, Florida and Vanderbilt.
Rivals has already logged predictions for Alabama, and Preyear could end up as the Tide’s second quarterback pledge in the class. He also played last season as the high school quarterback for current Alabama receiver Cedrick Morgan.
Alabama is also staying active on the receiver front. After winning Rivals’ MVP at The Opening, 2027 four-star Louisville commit Ja’Hyde Brown has been in contact with the Tide, according to Rivals.
Texas Tech, Ohio State and Georgia are among the other programs involved. If Alabama misses on five-star receiver Monshun Sales, Brown could become another option to join Osani Gayles.
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DeBoer came off the board at No. 11, behind Mike Elko, Kyle Whittingham and Lane Kiffin, which is exactly the kind of order that can stir up a fan base already inclined to defend its coach. The argument attached to the placement is pretty simple: Alabama supporters have a case to be irritated, because the ranking suggests DeBoer has already done more than some of the names selected ahead of him. [Read more 🡒]