DONE DEAL JUST IN: 5-star commit to Crimson Tide just now after Kane Wommack offer

It was a thrilling moment for Alabama fans on National Signing Day, and now they’re witnessing two exceptionally dynamic players making a significant impact on defense.

Qua Russaw and James Smith, the dominant forces from Carver High School in Montgomery, Alabama, had everyone talking about their college choices during the 2023 recruiting class. When both decided to sign with the University of Alabama, Crimson Tide fans were thrilled.

Russaw and Smith entered as five-star recruits, and after a year of development, both are poised to excel in Kane Wommack’s system.

 

Russaw, an edge-rushing linebacker, earned the starting role at Wolf during the Tide’s season opener at Bryant-Denny Stadium against Western Kentucky. He made a notable impact, recording four tackles, a tackle for loss, and a quarterback hurry. Praised as a “freak of nature” by teammates for his performance in spring practice and fall camp, the 6-foot-2, 251-pound Russaw continues to impress with his physical attributes and football IQ.

Kane Wommack praised Russaw’s work ethic and versatility, noting, “He is so workmanlike in the way he goes about his business. He’s not very vocal, but he’s a great teammate. He’s embraced the Wolf position, which requires him to perform a variety of roles—playing off the edge, in the box, and dropping back in coverage. His physical gifts and ability to adapt to our scheme were very evident in his performance against Western Kentucky.”

Smith, a defensive tackle, contributed with three tackles, two pass breakups, and a quarterback hurry.

Wommack is pleased with Smith’s progress in aligning with the defensive framework.

“James has made significant strides in terms of consistency,” Wommack noted. “After spring football, his performance was inconsistent, so we challenged him to fit better within the defense. He’s a natural playmaker, which is great, but building consistency was key. The growth he demonstrated from A-Day to fall camp was impressive, thanks in part to Freddie Roach’s guidance. I’m pleased with his development and the direction he’s headed. When you have a playmaker like him, you want to get him on the field.”

Russaw and Smith have always had the right mindset, and now they’re showing it on the field.