Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama Crimson Tide are reportedly in danger of losing a key commit to Lane Kiffin and the Ole Miss Rebels

Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama Crimson Tide may be in danger of losing a key 2026 commit to Lane Kiffin and the Ole Miss Rebels. 

2026 four-star defensive back Zyan Gibson has been committed to Alabama since Christmas Eve, but he's not necessarily "locked in" with the Crimson Tide. 

Rivals.com national recruiting analyst Sam Spiegelman put Gibson on "flip watch" this week, noting that the talented defensive is an Ole Miss legacy and returned to Oxford for an official visit this past weekend. 

Spiegelman also pointed out that the Auburn Tigers and the Tennessee Vols are "swinging away" at Gibson. 

Gibson, 6-foot/174 lbs from Gadsden, Al., is rated in 247Sports' composite rankings as the No. 4 cornerback in the nation and the No. 4 player in the state of Alabama. Additionally, Gibson is rated as the No. 48 overall player in the 2026 recruiting class. 

Scouting report via 247Sports: Dynamic two-way athlete that possesses no shortage of physical traits to develop into a high level cover corner on Saturdays. Hovering around a shade under 6-foot-1, Gibson exhibits the prototypical length, speed and athleticism that is so highly coveted at one of the game’s most premium positions. A natural mover that’s primarily positioned in bump-and-run coverage at the field and boundary corner spots, the Alabama native displays dynamic play speed and change of direction ability, showing the ability to flip his hips and mirror opposing pass catchers with relative ease in man coverage. Although the physical traits are readily apparent, Gibson will need to continue to develop his coverage instincts in the passing game in addition to playing with more force and physicality in the open field at the next level. The Top247 standout projects as a high level Power Four starter at the collegiate level with the ability to develop into a potential early Day-2 NFL Draft choice considering his blend of size, speed and athleticism.

Gibson will head to Tennessee for an official visit this upcoming weekend. 

Alabama is holding on to Gibson for now, but it's clear that this recruiting battle is far from over. 

The good news for Bama, though, is that the Crimson Tide will get Gibson's final official visit, which could end up being in the determining factor in this battle.