The Alabama Crimson Tide used a secret weapon that no other school can match to impress a key 2026 5-star recruit

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated Jun 23, 2025 11:36 AM ET

The Alabama Crimson Tide broke out a secret recruiting weapon this past weekend to impress a key 2026 five-star recruit.

And it's a weapon that no other program can compete with.

2026 five-star running back Ezavier Crowell made his way to Tuscaloosa over the weekend for his official visit with the Crimson Tide.

Crowell, 5-foot-11/200 lbs from Jackson, AL, is rated in 247Sports' composite rankings as the No. 2 running back in the nation and the No. 3 player in the state of Alabama. He's also rated as the No. 33 overall player in the 2026 recruiting class.

Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban just happened to be in town for Crowell's visit. The pair took a photo and spent some time together.

pic.twitter.com/U4KV0fQn1N
— Ezavier Crowell (@EzavierCrowell) June 21, 2025

Saban is the greatest college football head coach of all time. And while he may no longer be the head coach at Alabama, his influence is still felt on the program.

Getting Saban to spend some time with Crowell is the ultimate "closing move" from Alabama. That's something that no other program in the nation can match.

Crowell is set to announce his commitment on June 26. It would be a shock if he doesn't land with Alabama.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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