It’s been a while since Alabama featured a true game-changer at the tight end position, but head coach Kalen DeBoer is working to change that. The Crimson Tide took a big step in the 2025 recruiting cycle by signing Kaleb Edwards, a promising prospect who enrolled this summer. Now, DeBoer is aiming to strike again in the 2026 cycle.
Alabama’s top tight end target for 2026 is 4-star, a 6-foot-5, 230-pound standout from Dunlap, Illinois. On Thursday night, Sutter revealed his final four schools, with Alabama making the cut.
DeBoer faces strong competition for Sutter’s commitment. Ohio State brings significant NIL resources to the table, Ole Miss—under Lane Kiffin—offers a high-powered offensive scheme, and Illinois represents the local program. Still, Alabama holds a key advantage in the race.
Sutter will visit Alabama on June 20th, just six days before his scheduled June 26th commitment date. That final official visit could prove vital in the Tide’s efforts to secure the talented tight end. Sutter has already completed visits to the other three schools, giving Alabama the last chance to make a lasting impression.
The June 20th weekend will be a major recruiting event in Tuscaloosa. Sutter will be among several top-tier visitors, including three elite in-state 5-stars: wide receiver Cederian Morgan, edge rusher Anthony “Tank” Jones, and running back Ezavier Crowell.
While Alabama has developed a deep pool of explosive receivers, the tight end spot has been lacking a true impact player in recent years. Last season, CJ Dippre led the team’s tight ends with just 256 receiving yards and zero touchdowns.
The last significant contributor at the position was Irv Smith Jr., who in 2018 posted 710 receiving yards and seven touchdowns—still the most recent tight end at Alabama to surpass 500 yards in a season.
DeBoer has made it a point to overhaul the tight end room. In addition to Kaleb Edwards, Alabama also signed 4-star Marshall Pritchett and brought in two transfers this spring: Brody Dalton from Troy and Jack Sammarco from West Virginia.
It’s clear the position has been a priority for Alabama, and for a prospect like Sutter, early playing time is a real possibility. That message will surely be part of Alabama’s pitch during his upcoming visit.
