Kalen DeBoer, the new head football coach at Alabama, is settling into his new role in Tuscaloosa after only two months. The Crimson Tide is in its second week of spring practice, and excitement about the program is growing under the new leadership.
On Wednesday, DeBoer secured his fourth commitment in March, bringing a surge of optimistic energy to the recruiting road.
Darrell “Duke” Johnson, a four-star linebacker from Dodge County High School in Eastman, Ga., revealed his commitment to Alabama on the 247Sports YouTube channel on Wednesday.
“Me and Alabama simply had a good vibe and a solid coaching staff. I enjoy the coaching staff. Me and Coach Hitch hit it off really well, and me and Coach Kane, the defensive coordinator, have a fantastic bond; we chat every day, and that’s the best fit for me,” Johnson said.
Johnson, who stands 6-foot-1 and weighs 200 pounds, is ranked third among linebackers, seventh in Georgia, and 28th overall in the Class of 2025 by the 247Sports Composite.
He choose Alabama over Florida State, Texas A&M, UCF, and Southern California.
“I just want to come in and make a big impact as a freshman, get to know the scheme and the playbook, and be ready to play,” Johnson said after committing.
He has played quarterback, running back, and defensive back for Dodge County, recording 103 tackles as a junior last season.
Alabama now has six commitments in the Class of 2025, making them the No. 10 class in the cycle. Johnson is the second linebacker in the class and the fourth defensive player.
The story will be updated.
