Can Kalen DeBoer fend off the SEC’s elite to lock down another top defensive back? Alabama is already rounding up players for the 2026 class, beginning with 4-star CB Zyan Gibson as the sole commit of the cycle. And now, they’re en route to signing their second CB in the upcoming days. The catch? This coveted prospect is the nation’s No. 12 cornerback, and SEC rivals are hot on his trail. Now the former Huskies HC’s strategic skills will be tested as he navigates the cutthroat world of SEC recruiting.

The battle for Marietta Sprayberry standout Jorden Edmonds is reaching its final stretch, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. But as On3 Recruits reported on X on February 10, we’ll soon have our answers. “4-star CB Jorden Edmonds will announce his commitment February 19,” it stated, per Chad Simmons’ report. Now that date’s a big one—it’s Jorden Edmonds’ birthday. “Will he choose Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee or Oklahoma?” And one of those programs is about to land a game-changing addition to their secondary.

As far as inclination goes, On3 RPM predicted that Alabama and Georgia are currently the favorites to land the 6’3, 160-pounder. Still, Kalen DeBoer might hold the edge over Kirby Smart in this recruitment race. His multiple visits to Tuscaloosa gave him the confidence to say, “Alabama is on top. All four are still very high on my list, but Alabama has the top spot. I have been there four or five times and they make me feel most at home. The Alabama coaches treat me and my family good and that always stands out.” 

Aside from the general perception of Alabama, Jorden Edmonds likes the idea of how he “could play early there and fit into the rotation.” He also finds hope in the Crimson Tide’s co-DC, Maurice Linguist. “Coach Mo is who I talk to the most and he is great,” he admitted. “I have seen how involved in the drills he is. At practice, coach Mo is sweating, working with his players, and he takes it personal.” Already a big win for Alabama, but Georgia and Tennessee aren’t giving up without a fight. 

Jorden Edmonds also eyes Georgia and Tennessee 

These two SEC powerhouses aren’t far from Jorden Edmonds’ radar. He’s already been to Georgia five times, and as a native, the chance is quite high. “It is close to home, it is a really good program and they will play young players,” he stated. “Coach Donte Williams and I talk almost every other day and he always wants me up in Athens. The coaches and the players make it fun to be there.”

Josh Heupel and Tennessee still have a chance though. While Edmonds had only visited Knoxville once, he mentioned that the Vols are recruiting him really hard. “I like how they coach, I train with some players that are going there and I wanted to get back on campus,” he said. “Tennessee has been playing well and I like what they are doing.”

Whoever lands Jorden Edmonds is getting a versatile and explosive playmaker. He’s the No. 140 overall prospect in his class as well as the No. 19 recruit in the state of Georgia. Also a track and field athlete, he put up a stellar record in his junior year in 2024 with 32 receptions for 648 yards and four TDs, averaging 20.3 yards per catch. On defense, he racked up 30 tackles and one TFL. It’s a huge improvement from his sophomore year in 2023, where he recorded five catches for 101 yards, 28 tackles, and two interceptions. 

With just days left before Jorden Edmonds’ decision, Alabama is in a strong spot. But Georgia and Tennessee are closing fast. The suspense remains, but February 19 will spill it all!