Alabama Football News

Parker 6-foot-3 DB emerging as a top 2028 safety prospect

by
Larry Rudolph
January 26, 2026

Parker High School’s sophomore, CJ Craig-James continues to see his recruitment surge as he establishes himself as one of the best defensive back prospects in the 2028 class.

James has picked up recent offers from Mississippi State, USF, Georgia Tech, Troy, South Carolina and others. As his recruitment continues to gain steam, James says two programs are standing out early to him.

“Mississippi State and Georgia Tech are coming real strong,” he told Touchdown Alabama.

James’ recruitment looks to be on pace to continue to grow with Alabama and other college football programs showing interest in him.

The sophomore attended every Alabama home game this season. He has a relationship with the Tide’s defensive backs coach Maurice Linguist and the Tide’s defensive line coach Freddie Roach. Roach is major part of the Tide’s in-state recruiting efforts.

If Alabama offers James, they will immediately emerge as one of the front-runners in his recruitment, he tells Touchdown Alabama.

South Carolina will be the next team to host James for a visit. The Gamecocks will get him on campus on Jan. 31.

At 6-foot-3, James is a long safety who hovers around the backend of the Parker defense with great anticipation skills and impressive closing speed.