Alabama added another commitment to its 2024 class Friday, and it’s a player with a special connection to the program.
Defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr., son of former Crimson Tide star Dre Kirkpatrick Sr., committed to Alabama over Missouri. Like his father, a two-time national champion and 2012 NFL first round pick, Kirkpatrick Jr will play under the tutelage of Nick Saban in the Alabama secondary. Here’s what you need to know:
- Kirkpatrick Jr., a Gadsen, Ala., native, is a consensus three-star recruit according to the 247Sports composite ratings. He’s the first legacy commit of the Saban era.
- Alabama was a late addition in his recruitment process, offering him on July 25. Missouri was the perceived leader at the time but the chance to play for his dream school was too much to pass on.
- The 5-foot-11, 195-pound prospect is the sixth defensive back commitment in Alabama’s 2024 class, joining five-star Jaylen Mbakwe, four-stars Zabien Brown, Jameer Grimsley and Petyon Woodyard as well as three-star Rydarrius Morgan.
- Alabama’s 2024 class currently ranks No. 4 nationally, per 247Sports.
The Athletic’s instant analysis:
What it means for Alabama
Alabama’s coaching staff is continuing to prioritize defensive backs in the 2024 class, with the expected departures of current players and the depth void left by spring transfers. In Kirkpatrick Jr., they’re getting a versatile athlete who could play multiple positions in the secondary.
What sticks out about Kirkpatrick Jr. is his playmaking ability. His junior season film shows him making game-changing plays in a variety of ways, from interceptions, forced fumbles and even rushing touchdowns as a running back.
His pedigree shows in his play. He’s an instinctual player who knows how to work angles and put himself in the best position to make plays on the ball. His career will begin at safety, but his combination of versatility, coverage skills and tackling ability possibly projects him at Star eventually.
Required reading
(Photo: Matthew Emmons / USA Today)
