In a significant boost to their 2025 recruiting class, the Alabama Crimson Tide secured a commitment from five-star running back Akylin Dear on August 20, 2024.
Dear, hailing from Quitman High School in Mississippi, is regarded as one of the nation’s top running back prospects. He chose Alabama over offers from Ole Miss and Mississippi State, marking a pivotal moment in his recruitment journey.
Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 200 pounds, Dear showcased exceptional talent during his high school career. As a junior, he amassed over 2,000 rushing yards and scored 27 touchdowns, underscoring his prowess on the field.
His impressive performance earned him a spot in the ESPN 300, ranking as the No. 29 overall prospect and the No. 2 running back in the 2025 class.
Initially, Dear committed to Ole Miss on March 30, 2024. However, he decommitted on June 28, reopening his recruitment process.
During this period, Alabama’s coaching staff, particularly running backs coach Robert Gillespie, maintained consistent communication with Dear. This unwavering interest played a crucial role in his decision to join the Crimson Tide.
Dear noted, “Coach G stayed with me. He kept texting me and calling me. He never gave up. That showed me how much he wanted me.”
The opportunity to be part of Alabama’s storied football program also influenced Dear’s choice. He expressed enthusiasm about joining an elite organization known for competing at the highest level and striving for national championships.
Dear stated, “I’m going to be able to say I play for Alabama Crimson Tide, which is probably one of the greatest programs ever in the history of college football.”
Alabama’s track record of developing NFL-caliber running backs further appealed to Dear. The program has produced notable talents such as Derrick Henry, Mark Ingram, and Najee Harris.
Dear aims to follow in their footsteps, believing that Alabama’s environment will help him achieve his goal of becoming an elite player.
Dear’s commitment bolstered Alabama’s 2025 recruiting class, which was ranked No. 2 nationally at the time. He joined other top-30 pledges, including offensive tackle Ty Haywood, wide receiver Caleb Cunningham, and cornerback Dijon Lee Jr.
This collective talent underscored the program’s continued appeal to elite recruits.
Scouting reports highlighted Dear’s versatility and readiness for collegiate competition. Analysts praised his patience, vision, and explosiveness, noting his ability to excel in both zone and power schemes.
His physicality and craftiness as a runner, combined with separation quickness and long speed, positioned him as a home-run threat at the next level.
In December 2024, during the early signing period, Dear officially signed his letter of intent with Alabama. He enrolled early, participating in spring practices to acclimate to the team’s system and culture.
As of May 2025, Dear is preparing for his freshman season with the Crimson Tide. His integration into Alabama’s offense is highly anticipated, with expectations that his dynamic skill set will contribute significantly to the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to witness how Dear’s talent translates to the collegiate level and how he will uphold Alabama’s tradition of excellence at the running back positions.
