Alabama football: Crimson Tide heating up for 5-star in-state recruit
The Alabama football program looks to be the overwhelming favorite to sign 5-star in-state cornerback Tony Mitchell
According to 247 Sports, Tony Mitchell, the No. 1 defensive back (No. 11 overall) in the Class of 2023 recruiting class, is closely linked to a potential commitment to the defending national champion Alabama Crimson Tide.
The Alabaster, Ala., native has drawn immense interest from 33 of the nation’s college football powerhouses despite having only played two seasons of high school competition.
The Thompson High star cornerback back is listed at 6-foot-2, 180 pounds and is already one of the premier defensive prospects in a loaded 2023 class.
Alabama closing in on first 2023 commitment with Tony Mitchell
Last season, Mitchell led the uber-talented Thompson High defense to an undefeated, 14-0 season and a 7A state title. The junior cornerback concluded his sophomore season with 82 tackles, eight broken-up passes, eight tackles for loss, four interceptions and two touchdowns. In addition to his defensive role, Mitchell’s duties also included fielding kickoffs on special teams.
Alabama’s interest in Mitchell has been well-documented since September 2019, following his official visit to the Tuscaloosa campus and scholarship offer.
Mitchell’s commitment to the Alabama football program could greatly benefit head coach Nick Saban’s roster. Last season, the national champions had shown some weaknesses on the defensive side of the ball in the early stages of the 2020 season. Saban and defensive coordinator Pete Golding’s defense allowed 352.2 yards per game and 3.3 rushing yards per carry.
Mitchell is also earning heavy interest from SEC rivals LSU, Auburn, Georgia, and Tennessee, the program he verbally committed to in 2019.
Other Power 5 schools that are in the running to land a commitment from the No. 1 cornerback in the 2023 class include Florida State, Ohio State, Notre Dame, and Michigan.
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