Ivan Taylor, a four-star safety from Winter Garden, Florida, has flipped his commitment from Michigan to Alabama, adding to the Crimson Tide’s highly-ranked 2024 recruiting class. The 6-foot, 180-pound Taylor, who plays for West Orange High School, is now the 21st commit for Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer. Alabama’s 2024 class is currently ranked No. 2 in the nation by the On3 Industry rankings, and Taylor’s addition bolsters their defensive backfield.
Taylor initially committed to Michigan in July, after also briefly pledging to Notre Dame. However, Alabama never stopped recruiting him, and the relentless pursuit paid off. Taylor cited the fit with the program, particularly the coaching staff and the overall environment in Tuscaloosa, as key factors in his decision to flip. “Just the fit. I think I’ll be a better fit there. There’s really nothing else to it. The coaches, the environment,” he explained.
The relationship Taylor built with Alabama’s coaching staff, especially with General Manager Courtney Morgan and future position coach Colin Hitschler, played a pivotal role in his decision. “Coach Hitschler, Coach DeBoer, the whole coaching staff — they just treat me like family. I’m comfortable there. I’m going to be away from my family. It’s good to be treated like family by all the people,” Taylor said. The trust and bond with the coaching staff made Taylor feel confident in his choice.
Taylor’s commitment marks another win for DeBoer’s staff, known for developing top-tier defensive talent. His decision strengthens Alabama’s defensive class, bringing in a versatile safety who is expected to thrive in the Crimson Tide’s defensive scheme. Taylor’s skill set and leadership will be an asset as Alabama continues to build toward another championship run.
