Tuscaloosa, Ala. – The University of Alabama announced Wednesday that three of its 2026 freshmen have been placed on the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year watchlist. The honor, which recognizes the nation’s top first‑year players, adds to the excitement surrounding the Crimson Tide’s upcoming fall camp.
Watchlist Selections
EJ Crowell – Running Back
Crowell, a unanimous five‑star recruit from Jackson, Alabama, re‑classified from the 2027 class to join the Tide’s 2026 roster. In high school he amassed 2,632 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns in 14 games, leading his team to an AHSAA state championship. His performance earned him the Texas and national Gatorade Player of the Year honors and the Maxwell High School Player of the Year award.
Jireh Edwards – Safety
Edwards arrives from Upper Marlboro, Maryland, after a standout career at Saint Frances Academy. Rated the nation’s top safety by ESPN, he was a MaxPreps junior All‑American, recording 92 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, six pass break‑ups and three forced fumbles. Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack added Edwards to a secondary that aims to be among the nation’s best.
Keelon Russell – Quarterback
Russell, a unanimous five‑star prospect from the 2025 recruiting class, was named Alabama’s starting quarterback this past weekend, beating senior Austin Mack for the role. He appeared in two games last season, completing 11 of 15 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns while adding 17 rushing yards. Russell also earned the Texas and national Gatorade Player of the Year honors and the Maxwell High School Player of the Year award while at Duncalville High School in Texas.
What the Watchlist Means
The Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year watchlist includes 37 players from programs across the country. Alabama has produced two winners since the award’s inception in 2018: Will Anderson Jr. in 2020 and Caleb Downs in 2023. The watchlist will be narrowed to 14 semifinalists on Nov. 14, then three finalists on Dec. 2, with the award presented on Dec. 28.
Fall Camp and Season Outlook
Alabama returned to the practice field on Wednesday, Aug. 26, for the 17th day of fall camp. The Tide is scheduled to open the 2026 season at home against East Carolina on Saturday, Sept. 5, with kickoff set for 11:00 a.m.
Coach Nick Saban and his staff have emphasized the depth and talent of this year’s class, noting that the addition of Crowell, Edwards, and Russell gives the team multiple options on both sides of the ball. The watchlist selections underscore the program’s continued ability to attract top‑rated recruits and develop them into national contenders.
Community Connection
The announcement was made by Wyatt Fulton, the Tide’s 100.9 DME and Brand Manager, who also covers Alabama football and men’s basketball. Local fans can follow Fulton’s updates on X (formerly Twitter) at @FultonW_ for further insights throughout the season.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
