Alabama Football: Ranking Crimson Tide’s last 10 recruiting classes

1. 2017

Best Player: Tua Tagovailoa
Best Value: Henry Ruggs III

I mean, was there ever any question which recruiting class was best this past decade? It’s obvious on paper, on the field, and in the stat sheet.

Let’s start with the quarterback. Tua Tagovailoa is the first true stud Nick Saban has coached at quarterback. He can make every throw, scramble for first downs, and lead his team to victories. Outside of Tua, you have the best receiving corps you could fathom. Jerry Jeudy, Devonta Smith and Henry Ruggs III all in one class should be against the rules, especially when you pair them with the arm of Tua.

You also add Najee Harris in the running game. Harris hasn’t gotten the respect he deserves. He’s sat behind Damien Harris, Bo Scarbrough, and Josh Jacobs for his first two years, but it is now his time to shine alongside Brian Robinson.

On the offensive line, Alex Leatherwood and Jedrick Wills carry this offensive line, and they will both be playing their natural tackle positions next year.

Defensively, you have Dylan Moses leading the linebackers. If he plays well, he will work his way into that top tier of Alabama ‘backers. You also have LaBryan Ray ready to make a huge impact this season. In the secondary, Xavier McKinney lowers the boom at the third level of the defense. You also got Isaiah Buggs as a JUCO transfer.

You have stars, starters, and reserves in this class. They have contributed since their freshmen years. It is no coincidence that their two years in college have been two of the best in Alabama history.