Here’s a polished article covering Xavier Griffin’s flip to Alabama and his responses to critics:
Gainesville, GA – July 9, 2025 — Five-star linebacker Xavier Griffin, once committed to USC, has officially flipped his pledge to the University of Alabama. The elite prospect spoke candidly about his decision, giving full credit to head coach Kalen DeBoer and the current Alabama staff — and dismissing whispers that legendary coach Nick Saban played a decisive role.
🏈 Commitment Shocker: From USC to Bama
Griffin originally pledged to USC in July 2024 but reopened his recruitment in May 2025. He considered several programs—including Ohio State, Texas, and Florida State—before announcing his commitment to Alabama on June 29, 2025.
Ranked by ESPN as the No. 3 outside linebacker in the Class of 2026, Griffin stands at 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds. He’s widely praised for his versatility: capable of lining up in coverage or rushing the passer with equal prowess.
“The haters just want to talk”
During a recent interview, Griffin addressed speculation about Nick Saban’s influence:
“I personally never talked to (Nick) Saban … other than that one year,” he said, referring to a brief encounter before DeBoer’s arrival in Tuscaloosa. “They do a good job. The haters just want to talk.”
He reaffirmed that his decision was driven by the Alabama staff’s recruiting effort, not Saban’s stature.
Griffin’s Mom Speaks Out
Griffin’s mother, Jay Clay, took to X to echo her son’s sentiment and set the record straight:
Her message firmly credited DeBoer’s staff—especially linebackers coach Christian Robinson—for winning over Griffin.
Building Blocks: DeBoer’s Recruiting Momentum
DeBoer’s Alabama has assembled an elite 2026 class, now featuring five five-star recruits, including Griffin. That haul has dispelled early criticism about DeBoer’s recruiting capabilities post-Saban .
ESPN reports Griffin chose Alabama after “the Crimson Tide’s pedigree and vision laid out by Alabama coach DeBoer and outside linebackers coach Christian Robinson were driving factors” .
What Griffin Brings to Tuscaloosa
Already considered the No. 1 linebacker in the country, Griffin offers immediate depth and playmaking potential. Over his final high school seasons, he recorded 15 sacks and 33 tackles for loss.
Score Atlanta notes:
Griffin is so versatile that he can stand up and play outside linebacker … or rush the edge … He brings impressive attention to detail … outstanding character … and has the talent … to be a Day 1 contributor.”
The Dialogue Over Saban vs. DeBoer
Some fans speculated that Saban’s presence on campus during visits may have influenced recruits. One X user joked: “Saban probably was on the visits 🤣🤣🤣”. But with Griffin and his mother dismissing that notion, the narrative has shifted in support of DeBoer’s staff.
Final Takeaway
Xavier Griffin’s commitment to Alabama is more than a recruiting win—it’s a statement. Griffin, backed by his mother, has made it clear that the decision stemmed from belief in the current coaching staff, not nostalgia for Nick Saban. As DeBoer fortifies Alabama with top-tier recruits, the program continues its run as a national powerhouse—proving that “Roll Tide” is firmly about the present and future.
Need stats, video highlights, or analysis on how Griffin fits Alabama’s defensive scheme? I can dig deeper or embed media from ESPN or similar—just say the word!
