Kalen DeBoer is already making moves in Alabama’s 2026 recruiting class, locking down a 4-star cornerback who’s a top in-state prospect. On film, he’s a shutdown machine. On paper, he’s a top-10 talent in his position. Right now, he’s the lone commit in Bama’s 2026 class—a statement piece for a program rebuilding its in-state dominance. But here’s the catch: SEC rivals are circling. Other powerhouse programs have their eyes on this Bama pledge. As of now, can DeBoer hold the line, or will the Tide face an early recruiting test?

Alabama’s prized 2026 commit? None other than Gadsden City’s lockdown corner, Zyan Gibson. He pledged to the Crimson Tide on Dec. 24, Christmas Eve, but the recruiting battle isn’t over yet. Gibson is keeping his options open and has already locked in an official visit—to Tennessee on June 13. Looks like the Vols are making a push, with other programs likely to follow. As of now, DeBoer will have to fight to keep his elite CB in the fold.

Gibson is one of the best in the nation, and the rankings back it up. At 5-foot-11, 177 pounds, the Gadsden, AL, standout is the No. 4 cornerback in the country and the No. 4 player in Alabama, per 247Sports. He’s also sitting at No. 54 overall in the 2026 class. But with talent like his, the battle for his commitment is far from over.

Tennessee was his first SEC offer, and they’ve been in his corner from day one. “They were my first SEC offer and they have recruited me and my family hard from day one,” Gibson said. “Them being with me from the start says a lot.” Head coach Josh Heupel and his staff are all in, making sure Gibson knows he’s a priority.

But they’re not alone. Auburn is pushing, too, set to host Gibson again this spring. However, Alabama isn’t backing down either, and the four-star CB remains locked in with the Tide. “My commitment to Alabama is solid. My relationship with the coaches and staff, especially Coach Mo (Maurice Linguist), is key. I see myself being successful in their defense.” Looks like with powerhouse programs in pursuit, Gibson’s recruitment is one to watch.

Georgia and Miami have jumped into the mix, turning up the pressure on Alabama. The Hurricanes made a strong push during Gibson’s January visit, but Auburn and the Vols are still Bama’s biggest threats.

Does Alabama have a chance?

Zyan Gibson sees Alabama as the perfect place to elevate his game. Even after four other commits backed out, he stood firm, pledging to the Crimson Tide last month. But now, Auburn—the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class in 2026—is making a push. With Gibson heading to the Plains this week, speculation is heating up. Will he stay loyal to Bama, or is a flip on the horizon? Tide fans are holding their breath because this battle is just getting started.

“They have been in touch with me every other day, showing me their practices, FaceTiming me and calling me, showing a lot of love. They love me, they do—and I can tell,” said Gibson during his Bama commitment. But despite pledging to Alabama, Auburn isn’t backing down. Their push is stronger than ever, and Gibson is set to revisit the Tigers in the spring.

Gibson already made the trip to Auburn for Junior Day on Saturday—and the Tigers made sure he felt the love. “The coaches, the people, I like the coaches. It’s just a blessing. Their energy is great, every time I come up here, they show love,” said Gibson. Looks like Hugh Freeze and his Auburn staff are making a serious push for 2026 talent, and Zyan Gibson is high on their list.

Both the programs are in-state powerhouses, but Alabama’s rich history gave them the edge. Now, with Auburn turning up the heat, will that history be enough to keep him in Tuscaloosa?