Alabama Faces Recruiting Challenge as 4-Star Commit Visits SEC Rival
Alabama football is in the middle of a key recruiting battle. Kenny Darby, a 4-star wide receiver currently committed to LSU, is making an official visit to Alabama. This visit comes just weeks before his planned July 4 commitment confirmation.
Darby, from Bossier City, Louisiana, is ranked among the top wide receivers in the 2026 class. Last season, he had over 100 receptions, more than 1,700 receiving yards, and 24 touchdowns. His talent makes him a major target for SEC programs.
Although he’s been committed to LSU since November 2024, Darby’s trip to Tuscaloosa shows Alabama still has a shot to flip him. Coach Kalen DeBoer and his staff will try to convince him that Alabama’s history of producing NFL wide receivers makes it the better choice.
This visit is important because Alabama needs strong receivers in its 2026 class, and flipping Darby from a rival like LSU would be a big recruiting win. On the other hand, if Alabama can’t make up ground before July 4, it would be a missed chance to add a playmaker.
DeBoer will likely focus on showing Darby how Alabama develops receivers and gives them a clear path to the NFL. With only a few weeks left, this visit might be Alabama’s last real opportunity to change Darby’s mind.
Bottom line: Alabama is still in the running, but the pressure is on. Losing out on Darby to LSU would sting. Winning him over would be a major boost for the Tide’s 2026 recruiting class.
