National Signing Day has come and gone, and Alabama’s 2020 recruiting class if officially set. There were 25 total members (26, if you count North Carolina grad transfer tight end Carl Tucker) with talent across the board.
In order for fans to get to know the Crimson Tide’s newest players, we have laid out a “get to know them” article for each member.
First, it was five-star quarterback Bryce Young. Now, we have five-star edge player Will Anderson.
Will Anderson, Defensive End
Hometown: Hampton (Ga.)
High school: Dutchtown
Size: 6-3, 233 (6-4, 230 on official Alabama roster)
247Sports composite ranking: 5-star / No. 17 overall / No. 1 WDE
247Sports composite ranking: 5-star / No. 6 overall / No. 1 WDE
Rivals ranking: 5-star / No. 22 overall / No. 1 WDE
ESPN ranking: 4-star / 85 overall grade / No. 6 DE
Commitment date: June 17, 2019
Signing date: Dec. 18, 2019
Where does he fit in? Alabama loaded up on edge rushers during the 2020 recruiting cycle. And while Will Anderson was once the lowest rated of the four additions (Chris Braswell, Drew Sanders and Quandarrius Robinson), a late boost vaulted him to the top.
At 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, Anderson already has the length needed to succeed as a 3-4 outside linebacker. But what makes him stand out above the rest is his advanced ability as a pass rusher, which could help him see the field as early as 2020.
The losses of Anfernee Jennings and Terrell Lewis to the NFL, as well as the transfer of former five- star Eyabi Anoma prior to the 2019 season, has left a major void at outside linebacker. Chris Allen should slide into one of those starting jobs, but the spot opposite him remains up in the air.
Jarez Parks, Ben Davis, Kevin Harris II and King Mwikuta all will have opportunities, but the four true freshman will be given chances as well.
The only one of the edge players who hasn’t enrolled early is Robinson, who will have to try to make up some ground come the summer. But Anderson and company are plenty capable of creating separation.
Previous players:
QB Bryce Young
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