The University of Alabama has done a remarkable job at finding talent, even those without the pedigree. With one freshman running back making waves this spring, it may just be another notch on its belt.
On the 25th hour of Signing Day, it’s typically when programs put the finishing touches on their recruiting class.
But this past Signing Day was a little bit different, the University of Alabama signed running back Trae’shawn Brown.
It was reminiscent of when Alabama swooped in to sign multiple-time Pro Bowler Josh Jacobs, who started his career off as a zero-star recruit, and then turned into the key part of the Tide’s National Championship in 2017.
“Everybody that I had talked to from beat writers at Tuscaloosa News and several of their sports people, that’s what they’re relating it to as well,” Brown’s head coach Todd Moebes said. “It’s a great story. Hopefully, there’s another one down the line, and it becomes the story of Trae’shawn Brown.”
Brown was initially trending towards committing to Boise State, and when it was reported that the Tide signed him at the last minute, the collective reaction on the internet was… “who?”
The Huntsville, TX, native always had his eyes on Alabama, even though it was looking bleak. So bleak that Moebes hadn’t heard from anyone and he was preparing to sign on with the Broncos.
Until 6 p.m. came along, with Alabama on the phone.
Even though it was late in the signing process, the university understood the circumstances.
“It was extremely fresh,” Moebes said. “Credit to Alabama too, because they were very professional… They were very open and saying they understood they were here in the 25th hour.”
One month later, Brown was settled in his dorm, and has thoroughly impressed since stepping onto campus.
Alabama analyst for Cover Crimson, Clint Lamb, has been singing his praises all spring long, and mentioned how efficient he has looked.
“Anytime this cat has been on the field, he’s been making plays. He just gets it, man. [He has] the vision. He plays through contact, the contact balance.
Even head coach Kalen DeBoer had glowing remarks on Brown earlier this month.
“The guy that I thought had a nice week was Trae’shawn,” DeBoer said, “Showed it a little bit in the scrimmage. Throughout the week, there was a live session, goal line, and things like that where he showed some pop. I think overall he’s had some good progress here this spring.”
DeBoer and General Manager Courtney Morgan have already done a fantastic job at finding players who hold real value.
Both London Simmons and Lottie Brooks were three-star recruits and received significant playing time as true freshmen on a College Football Playoff team.
Given the struggles in the running back room, it leaves you to wonder if Brown could get some carries early on in his career.
The hype behind Trae’shawn Brown is real, but you may not see a hefty return on investment just yet.
If anything, remember the name. It probably won’t be the last time you hear about him.
Bama Roundtable also offers a fan community and message board. We’d love to have you join us to talk all things Alabama. Click the “Join” button at the top of the page to join our community for free.