The top linebacker in the country has committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide. Xavier Griffin is one of the best in the country and a 5-star prospect according to 247Sports. Griffin chose the Crimson Tide over Texas, Ohio State, and Florida State.
Griffin was a former USC commit before reopening his recruitment early in the summer and went to visit Alabama, Ohio State and Texas. Griffin has been a fan of Alabama since he was a little boy, saying he would one day suit up for the Crimson Tide. Here is the quote from his mom, Jay Clay, on social media.
“Mama, one day I’ll be playing for the University of Alabama one day. Well, son that time has came,” said Clay.
That three year old use to tell me, “Mama one day I’ll be playing for the University of Alabama one day”!!! Well son that time has came, Roll Tide Roll https://t.co/oUrdYKOBKz
— Jay Clay (@bamamade87) June 30, 2025
He also joins fellow teammate Jamarion Matthews, who was already an Alabama commit and shut down his recruitment the day prior to Griffin committing. The Crimson Tide now have a formidable tandem on the defensive line. Griffin is so versatile that he can stand up and play outside linebacker while covering opposing playmakers on the outside, or he can put his hand in the ground and rush the edge, causing chaos and havoc. He is exceptionally good at both.
So, what does he bring to the Crimson Tide?
He brings impressive attention to detail, a willingness to be critiqued and get better, and most of all, outstanding character. I got the chance to see him as a sophomore when he was still growing into his body, but not the football acumen and IQ match his body type, which makes for a dangerous combination on the gridiron. He has drawn some player comparisons to Jihaad Campbell, who was also a standout linebacker for the Crimson Tide before being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Griffin has the talent and work ethic to be a Day 1 contributor for the Crimson Tide as soon as he gets on campus.
Before getting there, he will play one final season for Gainesville, a usual state title contender and should be back in the conversation in 2024, especially with the pieces they have on defense and four-star QB Kharim Hughley leading them on offense in 2025. With Griffin’s ability on defense the Red Elephants will be a force to be reckoned with.
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