Alabama football has secured an important commitment for the class of 2025 with the addition of 4-star athlete Zymear Smith from North Caroline High School in Maryland. Smith, a versatile prospect standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 166 pounds, announced his commitment to the Crimson Tide on social media this past Saturday. His decision to join Nick Saban’s program marks the first out-of-state commitment for new head coach Kalen DeBoer’s 2025 recruiting class, which is beginning to take shape.
Smith had multiple high-profile offers, including from Georgia, Texas, and Penn State, but ultimately chose Alabama. His commitment comes at a crucial time for the Tide, as DeBoer and his coaching staff are working to establish new offensive and defensive schemes while also strengthening the team’s 2025 recruiting efforts. Smith’s decision follows a visit to Tuscaloosa, where over 70 recruits were welcomed during a key recruiting weekend. This was a major step for Alabama, which has a strong recruiting tradition but finds itself with a new staff that needs to build relationships and secure top-tier talent for the future.
As a junior at North Caroline, Smith was an all-around player, excelling both on offense and defense. He rushed for 670 yards and eight touchdowns in just nine games, adding four receiving touchdowns as a dynamic playmaker. On defense, Smith showcased his versatility with 22 tackles, three interceptions, and a forced fumble. His performance helped lead the Bulldogs to a 9-2 record and a spot in the second round of the playoffs. While Smith has demonstrated offensive skills, he is being recruited by Alabama as a cornerback, where his speed, ball skills, and playmaking ability could make an immediate impact.
This commitment is especially significant for Alabama, as it adds to their growing 2025 class, which now has four members, including running back Anthony Rogers, defensive lineman Antonio Coleman, and athlete Myles Johnson. Despite being ranked 28th nationally by 247Sports, the Tide are focused on improving their standing and closing strong as more recruits make their decisions in the coming months.
For Smith, his choice of Alabama signals a strong belief in the program’s future under DeBoer and an opportunity to develop his skills alongside some of the best players in the country. As the 2025 class continues to develop, Smith’s commitment could be the first of many to come for Alabama.