BREAKING: 5-Star Safety Malik “Jet” Dawson Commits to Alabama Over Auburn, Georgia in Recruiting Shockwave
July 10, 2025 – Tuscaloosa, AL
In a decision that sent shockwaves across the college football landscape, Malik “Jet” Dawson, the nation’s No. 1 ranked safety and a consensus 5-star recruit out of Buford, Georgia, has officially committed to the University of Alabama. The announcement was made live on ESPN during a nationally televised recruiting special at his high school gym, where a packed crowd of fans, teammates, and media awaited the verdict.
Donning a crimson Alabama cap and flashing a smile that belied the intensity of the recruiting battle, Dawson ended weeks of speculation that had him flipping between SEC powerhouses Auburn, Georgia, and Alabama.
> “I’m taking my talents to Tuscaloosa,” Dawson said, surrounded by his family. “Coach DeBoer and the staff made me feel like family from day one. Bama isn’t just a program—it’s a legacy. And I want to be part of the next chapter.”
The Decision
Dawson’s commitment represents a major win for Alabama, which had been locked in a neck-and-neck race with in-state rival Auburn and defending national champion Georgia. A game-changing defender with 4.3 speed, elite instincts, and a 6’2” frame built for the modern secondary, Dawson had received over 35 Division I offers.
Sources close to his recruitment say that Georgia’s recent defensive dominance and Auburn’s aggressive NIL pitches made the race tight until the final week. But a private visit to Tuscaloosa last month—where he met with alumni like Minkah Fitzpatrick and Eddie Jackson—reportedly sealed the deal.
Impact on Alabama
For Alabama, this commitment cements another top-tier recruiting class under head coach Kalen DeBoer, who is now entering his second season following Nick Saban’s retirement. Dawson becomes the highest-ranked defensive back to commit to the Crimson Tide since Patrick Surtain II in 2018.
Defensive coordinator Travaris Robinson called Dawson “a generational talent” in a statement released minutes after the announcement.
> “Malik is the type of player who changes the geometry of the field,” said Robinson. “He’s a leader, a film junkie, and a kid who will be ready to contribute Day 1.”
The Player
Dawson, known for his explosive closing speed and bone-rattling hits, finished his senior season with 84 tackles, 6 interceptions, 3 forced fumbles, and 2 defensive touchdowns. He also returned kicks and ran track, posting a 10.48 in the 100m.
Scouting reports compare him to a blend of Derwin James and Eric Berry—rangy, versatile, and unafraid of contact.
“He’s a unicorn,” said ESPN analyst Tom Luginbill. “You don’t see safeties with that kind of range and football IQ come around often.”
Ripple Effect
Dawson’s commitment could influence several uncommitted prospects, including 4-star linebacker Jeremiah Polk and top cornerback Jaylen Hart, both close friends of Dawson who were considering Georgia.
For now, though, Alabama fans have plenty to celebrate. With “Jet” Dawson landing in Tuscaloosa, the Crimson Tide just got faster, louder, and scarier in the secondary.
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