Alabama had two players to back off its pledge to the Crimson Tide for the 2025 recruiting class; however, it received a marquee verbal commitment from a four-star edge rusher. 

Kalen DeBoer took a recruit from Ryan Day and Ohio State's backyard with Justin Hill.

RELATED: In-State 4-Star LB Myles Johnson de-commits from Alabama

The 6-foot-3, 220-pounder is a star at Winton Woods High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. DeVonta Smith, a defensive back for the Tide, was very excited to see Hill commit to Alabama. Smith, a former four-star in the 2021 signing class, is also from Cincinnati.

The Tide's coaching staff reacted with excitement on social media to get Hill. 

OLB’s 🐘

— Jamey Mosley (@IAm_JameFlame) July 3, 2024

LANK! #ColdSummer pic.twitter.com/MEFfdM4pnb

— Kevin Green (@CoachKev6k) July 3, 2024

Cookin’ with Crimson #RollTide #RTR pic.twitter.com/ZTRPlRHWdH

— Eron Hodges (@EronHodges) July 3, 2024

#coldsummer

— Courtney Morgan (@PlayerProMorgan) July 3, 2024

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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.