For the Alabama Crimson Tide, anything short of national dominance feels like a crisis. The post-Saban era has already delivered its fair share of skepticism. Kalen DeBoer’s first season as Bama coach is widely believed to be a major flop when looking at it from the “Bama Standard”. And so, when cracks started forming in Alabama’s roster, DeBoer wasted no time attacking the recruiting trail like a man who knows the wolves are already circling. A freakishly athletic, two-sport phenom with GOAT Kobe Bryant’s blood running through his veins.

Enter Jett Washington, the nephew of the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant and a rising star in his own right. A 6’5”, 200-pound safety with the versatility to line up at wide receiver or even linebacker, Washington is exactly the kind of athlete Alabama craves. DeBoer’s recent stop at Bishop Gorman High School wasn’t just another recruiting visit—it was a statement. According to On3’s Josh Newberg, the Alabama head coach personally made the trip, a sign that Washington isn’t just another name on the board; he’s a priority.

“I really like that they stopped on the way out, they stopped at Bishop Gorman and saw Jett Washington,” Newberg said on On3 Recruits. “If you watch him on tape, I mean you can see the athleticism—6’4″ safety, can do a little bit of everything.” Alabama’s interest isn’t surprising. Washington is currently the No. 1 safety prospect in the country per 247Sports. A rare blend of size, speed, and football IQ that makes him an instant game-changer at the next level. And while safety is his primary position, his frame and athletic ability open the door to multiple roles.

That kind of versatility is why schools across the country are lining up for his commitment. But Alabama isn’t just another suitor. They’re in full-on attack mode, flying coast to coast in pursuit of the next wave of elite talent, with Kalen DeBoer making sure Washington knows exactly how much he’s wanted in Tuscaloosa.

The Bryant bloodline only adds another layer to Washington’s story. While football is his path, the echoes of his uncle’s legacy are impossible to ignore. The Mamba Mentality isn’t just a catchy phrase in this family; it’s a standard. And in the SEC, where every snap is a war, that mindset could be the difference between being good and being great. Washington has that edge, the kind of competitive fire that can transform a defense. Alabama knows it.

The biggest question now isn’t whether Washington will make an impact at the college level—it’s where he’ll make it. With other scavengers also hunting for that Bryant bloodline.

Kalen DeBoer isn’t alone, top schools are after Bryant’s bloodline

The recruiting battle for Jett Washington is officially heating up, and some of the biggest names in college football are making their pitch. Washington, the nephew of NBA legend, is the top-ranked safety in the Class of 2026. And schools are pulling out all the stops to land his commitment. So, Kalen DeBoer and Bama can’t sit idle just yet.

Oregon head coach Dan Lanning has been making some serious moves, with one of his most notable stops being a visit to Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas to meet with Washington in person. The Phil Knight connection could give the Ducks an edge—Nike’s deep ties to both Oregon and the Mamba legacy might make Eugene an attractive landing spot.

But the Ducks aren’t alone. Michigan sent a trio of coaches to woo Washington. He already visited Notre Dame and Minnesota. So far, though, Washington is playing things close to the vest. Taking to social media, he kept it short and sweet: “I appreciate all the coaches who have come to visit me and my family the past couple weeks!!” followed by a ‘100’ emoji—letting everyone know he’s keeping it real but not tipping his hand just yet.