After initially committing to Georgia Tech just over a month ago, towering offensive lineman has flipped his decision and will now join the Alabama Crimson Tide.
In today’s college football landscape, where NIL deals and direct athlete compensation are the norm, no verbal commitment is truly locked in. Georgia Tech experienced that firsthand on Friday, when Bama 24/7 reported that the 6-foot-7 tackle had reconsidered and decided to leave his home state in favor of Alabama.
“It feels more like home there,” Fretwell told Bama 24/7. “I really appreciate how much they care, and the development at Alabama is unmatched. The environment is incredible—everyone is focused on reaching the highest level of the game, so you’re constantly surrounded by people pushing themselves to improve.”
The Southeast Bulloch standout shared that after receiving an offer from Alabama earlier this month, he visited Tuscaloosa while still technically committed to Georgia Tech. What ultimately sealed the deal for him was his immediate connection with Crimson Tide offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic.
“Coach Kapilovic is very honest—he told me exactly what he liked and didn’t like,” said Fretwell. “He said I’m a big, athletic guy—6’7″, 300 pounds—and I recently ran a 4.77-second 40-yard dash. He really praised my ability to change direction and said my footwork is among the best he’s seen in someone my size coming out of high school.”
Despite the challenge of succeeding legendary coach Nick Saban, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer is proving his recruiting abilities early in his tenure.
Fretwell becomes Alabama’s third offensive line commit in the 2026 class and the 21st overall pledge—helping solidify the Crimson Tide’s class, which currently ranks No. 3 nationally thanks to its high number of five-star prospects.
