Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama Crimson Tide are about to enter full-on recruiting season in Tuscaloosa, and the countdown is officially on for one of the SEC’s most intriguing recruiting battles.
According to Chad Simmons of Rivals, four-star linebacker Kenneth Simon II has locked in a commitment date of May 11. After months of visits and evaluations, he’s down to four powerhouse programs: Alabama, Georgia, Ole Miss, and Tennessee. But it’s one comment that’s turning heads across the recruiting world, Simon says one school has separated itself from the pack.
The question now: is it Alabama?
Kenneth Simon Locks in Decision Date After Busy Spring
Simon, a standout from Brentwood Academy, has been one of the most sought-after linebackers in the 2026 class. Ranked No. 144 in the Rivals Industry Ranking, he’s drawn offers from more than two dozen programs before narrowing his focus to four SEC contenders.
After multiple visits this spring to Tuscaloosa, Athens, Oxford, and Knoxville, Simon believes he has all the information he needs to make his decision.
“I saw all I needed to see this spring,” Simon told Rivals. “All four schools showed me a lot, and gave me a lot to think about, but there is one that stands out above the rest.”
That statement alone has fueled speculation, and Alabama is firmly in the center of it.
Why Alabama May Have the Edge
When Simon talks about Alabama, there’s a clear tone of respect, and maybe something more.
Winning culture stands out as a major factor for the 6-foot-2, 210-pound athlete.
“When you think of Alabama, you think of winning. As long as I’ve been alive, they’ve been winning,” Simon said. “The standard at ‘Bama—I wanna be a part of that standard.”
The connection with head coach Kalen DeBoer and defensive coordinator Kane Wommack also appears to be a strong selling point. Simon highlighted the program’s effort to involve his family and outline his potential role within the defense.
The combination of elite tradition, a clear development path, and strong relationships has checked nearly every box Simon mentioned when describing what he wants in a school.
Georgia, Ole Miss, and Tennessee Still in the Fight
While Alabama may have momentum, this recruitment is far from over.
Georgia has made a serious late push. Simon praised linebackers coach Glenn Schumann for his track record in player development and genuine approach.
“He’s put multiple linebackers in the NFL,” Simon noted.
Ole Miss offers a different appeal, such as relationships and football IQ development. With Pete Golding leading the defense, Simon sees an opportunity to grow mentally as a player.
“Being around people like that, getting my ball knowledge up would help.”
Tennessee, meanwhile, brings a personal connection that can’t be ignored. As a legacy prospect who grew up around Knoxville, Simon has deep ties to the program. His father played for the Vols from 2002 through 2005 and was named a two-time All-SEC linebacker.
“Our relationship is very good… it’s everything I would wanna do in college.”
Anytime you can beat an arch-rival for an elite talent like Simon, you celebrate if you are Coach DeBoer and Alabama.
The Final Countdown
Simon has made his visits. He’s built the relationships. Now, the decision is imminent.
One school stands out in his mind.
Can Alabama hold on to the momentum they have created, or will an SEC rival sweep in at the last moment and steal the coveted defensive recruit? We’ll find out on May 11.
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