Alabama lands another running back for 2027 recruiting class
Alabama added running back Tai Phillips as its ninth 2027 commit, with coach Kalen DeBoer expecting a smaller class overall.
Olivia Bennett 
The Alabama Crimson Tide have secured another key piece for the 2027 recruiting cycle as running back Tai Phillips has announced his verbal commitment.
Phillips, a 5-foot-11, 190-pound prospect out of Fayetteville, North Carolina, shared his decision to join Alabama on Monday. Currently rated as a three-star recruit, Phillips checks in as the No. 83 running back and No. 1022 overall prospect in the 2027 class, according to Rivals Industry rankings. Before choosing the Tide, he fielded interest from a competitive list of programs including Ohio State, Florida State, Penn State, and NC State.
Building the 2027 Class
With this commitment, Phillips becomes the ninth member of Alabama’s 2027 recruiting class. He joins a talented group that already features five-star quarterback Elijah Haven, five-star kicker Luke Cody, four-star linebacker Kenneth Simon II, four-star running back Nigel Newkirk, four-star quarterback Trent Seaborn, three-star edge defender AJ Pauley, three-star tight end Oakley Keegan, and three-star tight end Michael Nnabuife.
A Strategic Approach to Recruiting
Head coach Kalen DeBoer has been transparent about the size of the upcoming class. Following cycles that saw 27 signees in 2026 and 21 in 2025, the Crimson Tide are looking to trim the numbers for 2027.
Speaking during the SEC spring meetings in Miramar Beach, Florida, last week, DeBoer explained that the smaller class size is largely due to successful roster retention and a reliance on the transfer portal, coupled with a lack of significant departures among the senior class.
