Hoover 4-Star RB talks schools standing out in his recruitment

CJ Cowley - Photo by Justin Smith - Touchdown Alabama

Recruiting momentum continues to build for CJ Cowley with multiple programs actively making him a priority in the 2027 recruiting class.

Cowley currently attends Hoover High School in Alabama, and he is a member of the 2027 class. He garners a four-star rating from multiple recruiting sites at the moment. The four-star hold offers from Auburn, Oregon, Penn State and others.

The standout running back has confirmed plans to visit several schools in the coming months. Auburn, Mississippi State, Vanderbilt, and Kentucky are currently slated to receive visits from him.

While official dates have not yet been finalized, CJ noted that discussions are ongoing as schedules are worked out. When it comes to schools recruiting him the hardest, Auburn and Colorado are clearly standouts.

“Colorado told me they need a back like me in their backfield,” Cowley told Touchdown Alabama. “They said I’ll be a key piece.”

This message has resonated well with Cowley, especially with the opportunity to play early and be a major contributor in the offense.

Meanwhile, Auburn has been equally direct in its pursuit, emphasizing both fit and scheme.

“Auburn told me I’m the exact running back they are looking for,” Cowley said. “They feel like I would love the offense they run.”

With multiple SEC programs involved and interest continuing to rise, Cowley’s recruitment is trending in a strong direction as he works toward locking in visit dates and narrowing his focus.