BREAKING: 5-Star RB announce commitment to Alabama Over Mississippi State and Ole Miss
Alabama football’s five-star running back prospect is set to announce his college decision on Tuesday, August 20. Dear, a standout from Quitman High School in Mississippi, will choose between Alabama, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss.
The Crimson Tide have maintained a strong pursuit of Dear since Kalen DeBoer took over in Tuscaloosa. Early in the process, it became evident that Alabama’s running back coach, Robert Gillespie, would be a key figure in Dear’s recruitment, continuing his role from Nick Saban’s staff.
“They’re still at the top of my list because Coach (Robert) Gillespie is still there,” Dear told Touchdown Alabama in February. “I like Coach DeBoer. I need to get down there to meet the rest of the coaching staff.”
Although Dear initially committed to Ole Miss, Alabama continued to pursue him. Gillespie made a home visit during the spring, and Dear took an official visit to Alabama in June, leaving with a positive impression after what he described as a “dope” experience.
“The people at Alabama are the kind of people you want around you, really cool people,” Dear said after his visit.
In June, Dear de-committed from Ole Miss, and Alabama quickly emerged as a frontrunner to secure his commitment.
As a junior, Dear was a powerful runner with explosive speed, finishing the 2023 season with 2,016 rushing yards and 27 rushing touchdowns.
Justin Smith is the Director of Recruiting for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter at @Jdsmith31Smith.