In a significant recruiting development, four-star cornerback Zyan Gibson from Gadsden City High School in Alabama has committed to the University of Alabama’s 2026 class, choosing the Crimson Tide over offers from Auburn, Tennessee, and Miami. Gibson announced his decision on December 24, 2024, via a live stream on social media, where he donned an Alabama hat amidst celebratory cheers from friends and family.
Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 174 pounds, Gibson is ranked as the No. 56 overall prospect in the ESPN Junior 300 and is the eighth-ranked cornerback in the nation for the 2026 cycle. He is also the third-ranked prospect in the state of Alabama. During his junior season, Gibson recorded 37 tackles, showcasing his defensive prowess.
Gibson’s commitment is particularly noteworthy for Alabama, as it comes after the program experienced several decommitments from its 2026 class. His decision provides a boost to head coach Kalen DeBoer’s recruiting efforts, emphasizing the program’s renewed focus on securing top in-state talent.
The recruitment process saw Gibson taking unofficial visits to both Alabama and Tennessee during the fall. He cited the energy and loyalty of Alabama’s coaching staff, particularly head coach Kalen DeBoer and defensive backs coach Maurice Linguist, as significant factors in his decision. Gibson noted, “Coach DeBoer and Coach Mo… both keep letting me know how much they want and need me—that I’m their top priority for [the] 2026 class.”
Gibson’s commitment also highlights a personal connection to the program. He is a former high school teammate of Alabama freshman defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr., the son of former Alabama All-American Dre Kirkpatrick Sr., who also played at Gadsden City High School.
As Alabama continues to build its 2026 recruiting class, Gibson’s addition is seen as a significant step in strengthening the team’s future defensive lineup. His combination of size, speed, and on-field performance positions him as a promising asset for the Crimson Tide in the coming years.
