Alabama Football: 5 early signees who’ll have instant impact in 2019
3. Evan Neal (OT/Bradenton, Fla.)
One of the prizes of Alabama’s 2019 recruiting class is Evan Neal, the five-star offensive tackle out of IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla.
The strength of this class lies in the trenches on both sides of the ball. With the expected departure of a couple of starters, as well as some key reserves exhausting eligibility or moving on as grad transfers, Alabama was aggressive in pulling in offensive linemen during this cycle.
In total, the Crimson Tide signed five offensive line on Wednesday — three tackles and two guards, none more highly regarded than Neal.
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Neal stands at 6-foot-8 and 360 pounds, a towering and terrifying presence with the capability of coming in and being a day-one starter on Alabama’s offensive line. With decorated junior Jonah Williams likely headed to the NFL Draft, the Crimson Tide will be looking to replace the All-American left tackle.
In-house, the most logical solution would be to slide right guard Alex Leatherwood back over to his more familiar and comfortable left tackle spot, then moving Matt Womack, a former starter in his own right, to the voided spot at right guard.
But Neal will have something to say about that as he enrolls early with an eye on competing for immediate playing time.
He won’t be the only tackle from this class pushing for playing time, either, though.
Four-star offensive tackle Pierce Quick from Hewitt-Trussville has already enrolled and begun practicing with the team in hopes of pushing for a role on next year’s team. Fellow four-star Amari Kight from Alabaster was also a highly regarded prospect who will join the fray in hopes of cracking the rotation.
Neal seems to be the most likely candidate to push the more experienced guys for a starting spot next season, but Saban signed some highly talented offensive linemen in this class who won’t be content with biding their time on the bench.