Alabama’s recruiting machine hasn’t slowed down a step-and Maurice Linguist is making sure of it. Since stepping into his role as the Crimson Tide’s cornerbacks coach, Linguist has wasted no time reinforcing Alabama’s reputation as a defensive back factory. The program has already landed a strong mix of five-star talent and top-tier prospects over the last two cycles, and the early signs for 2027 suggest that momentum isn’t going anywhere.
One name already on the board: Nash Johnson III. The three-star cornerback is the first at his position to commit to Alabama in the '27 class, and while the stars next to his name might not jump off the page just yet, don’t be surprised if that changes.
Johnson’s stock is trending in the right direction, and with more eyes on him heading into the spring and summer, his ranking could climb. He’ll be back in Tuscaloosa this weekend for Alabama’s Junior Day-a key touchpoint in the recruiting calendar where the Tide often makes big impressions and bigger moves.
But Johnson’s not the only cornerback worth keeping tabs on. One of the most intriguing storylines in this cycle involves Raylaun Henry, the No. 3-ranked corner in the 2027 class.
Henry committed to Texas A&M back in November, choosing the Aggies over a small group of finalists that included Alabama. While he’s currently pledged to A&M, his recruitment is still one to watch closely.
The Tide rarely back down from a top-tier talent, especially one they were in the mix for late.
Linguist and the Alabama staff are clearly building something with staying power. If the early moves in the 2027 cycle are any indication, the Tide’s secondary room is going to stay loaded with elite talent-and the competition for those spots is just heating up.