Alabama football believes latest commit can contribute early

Alabama football snagged a commitment from Stafford Willis on Tuesday, beating out South Carolina, UCLA, Virginia and Virginia Tech.

Willis is a 2027 offensive lineman, and he attends Arab High School in Alabama. His love for the Crimson Tide separated the program for him.

“I love Alabama,” Willis said. “I’m excited for it. Roll Tide. It’s gonna be awesome. Can’t wait for it.”

While he may be rated as a three-star recruit on most recruiting sites, the Crimson Tide feels he is ahead of the development curve compared to most players rated where he is.

“I’m gonna be playing guard,” Willis told Touchdown Alabama. “They see me as a guy that can start in a year or two, so I’m really excited for it. It’s gonna be awesome. They think I’m a powerful run blocker, athletic enough to pass set. It’s gonna be awesome. Excited for it.”

“I’m going to be playing guard. They see me as a guy who can start in a year or two.”

Arab 6-foot-5 OL Stafford Willis @Stafford_55 on decision to commit to Alabama and where the Tide see him playing at. pic.twitter.com/kLl3VFp6gb

— Justin Smith (@Jdsmith31Smith) June 24, 2026

Alabama’s new offensive line coach Adrian Klemm had been working to build a relationship with Willis for months before the prospect announced his decision. His relationship with Klemm played a role in his decision.

“I love Coach Klemm,” said Wills. “Went on a couple of practice visits. I love that guy. Then, just getting to know him more, he’s my guy.
He’s my coach. I love that dude. I can’t wait. Can’t wait to get coached by him. He’s a legend.”

At 6-foot-5 and 290 pounds, Willis is a physical offensive lineman who displays the ability to properly execute a variety of blocking assignments. One can see him executing effective combo blocks and continuing to find work at the second level of defenses throughout his film. Stafford also flashes some agility along with some impressive strength. He is looking to improve as a pass blocker a lot during his final season of high school football.

Alabama football’s newest offensive lineman commit Stafford Willis @Stafford_55 is a gym rat at 6-foot-5 and 290 pounds.

Alabama told him they feel he can compete for playing time early, despite him being rated as a three-star recruit. https://t.co/BZ3QfZsSIb pic.twitter.com/3LjSU0auVR

— Justin Smith (@Jdsmith31Smith) June 24, 2026