Alabama lost another member of its 2025 recruiting class to a rival on Sunday afternoon when 4-star linebacker Jaedon Harmon announced he’s flipping to Tennessee.
Harmon, a promising prospect from Rome, Georgia, is widely regarded as a top-200 player and a top-20 linebacker nationally. This marks a significant win for the Vols, who have been gaining momentum on the recruiting trail.
Despite losing Harmon, Alabama still boasts the nation’s No. 2 recruiting class and the top class in the SEC. Additionally, the Tide remains well-stocked at linebacker, one of the deepest position groups in their 2025 class.
Alabama retains solid commitments from 4-star linebackers Darrell “Duke” Johnson, Abduall Sanders Jr., and Luke Metz. Johnson, a top-50 national player, is considered one of the best linebackers in the class. Sanders and Metz, while lower-end 4-stars, have impressed the Alabama coaching staff and come from powerhouse high school programs—Sanders from Mater Dei (CA) and Metz from Mill Creek (GA).
Looking at Harmon’s decommitment from a positive perspective, this could enhance Alabama’s chances of landing 4-star linebacker Ty Jackson. Jackson is arguably the top linebacker in the 2025 cycle and one of Alabama’s most coveted prospects. Ranked as the No. 1 linebacker in the country by both On3 and ESPN, Jackson could potentially earn a 5-star rating by signing day.
Although Alabama currently leads in Jackson’s recruitment according to On3, his commitment isn’t expected soon. Georgia and Florida remain strong contenders, and Alabama will have to fight for Jackson’s signature. Harmon’s departure, however, opens up more room in what was previously a crowded 4-man inside linebacker class.
While losing a 4-star recruit to a rival is never ideal, Alabama’s linebacker group and 2025 class remain among the best in the nation. With a chance to put an impressive product on the field this fall, the Tide’s staff is well-positioned to finish strong on the recruiting trail.
