Alabama Football Recruiting 2017: Breaking down the Tide’s newest recruits

Let’s face it, Alabama probably isn't going to finish with the No. 1 class this year. The summer has had some bright spots, though, and it looks like the Tide are still poised for a top 10, possibly even top 5 finish in the 2018 cycle. Alabama is going to take a much smaller class this year, so that will be the Achilles heel in trying to claim the top spot come February. Alabama currently sits at 32nd in the nation. Alabama has added two stellar recruits recently, so let's break down what they will bring to the table.

Slade Bolden: 3-star Louisana ATH

First things first, Bolden brings a very special and unique set of skills to Alabama. He stands at 5-11 and weighs in at 198 lbs. He has played a handful of positions in high school, but many expect him to be a slot receiver at the next level. He brings everything you need from a slot receiver: solid hands, good route running, great change of direction and elusiveness. Beyond that, Bolden has a niche for finding the pockets and holes in the defense, something Coach Daboll will love. First thing that comes to mind after seeing his tape is only one name: Julian Edelman. His commitment is very important, due to the fact that Alabama target and 4-star WR Jacob Copeland committed to Florida last week. Bolden plans to enroll early, which is always a positive. He has been clocked at a 4.52 for his 40 yard dash. As a running back, he rushed for 1,370 and 24 touchdowns, while as a wide receiver, he made 15 catches for 248 yards and four touchdowns. Not only has Bolden been a 3 year starter for his football team, but he has also been a 3 year starting outfielder for his baseball team. He has done all this while holding a 4.0 GPA in the classroom as well.

Cameron Latu: 4-star Utah DE

Cameron Latu was a big recruiting win for The Tide. The west is an area where Nick Saban needed to find a recruiting win, and he did. Latu is the 8th best DE in the nation and 149th overall recruit in America. The universal 4-star stands at 6-5 and weighs in at 236 pounds. He brings speed, power and size to the 2018 class. At 6-5, his frame is perfect. He may need to add a solid amount of muscle weight, but that isn't an issue with Scott Cochran around. Latu had 65 tackles, 20 for a loss and 9 overall sacks last season. He is physical and athletic enough to play JACK at Alabama, as that is where many see him playing. Latu's film shows great footwork and the ability to drop back in coverage, something that coaches love. He made three total trips down to Tuscaloosa, which was a huge factor in his commitment (one does not easily resist the charms of Alabama’s campus). If Saban wants to win over some of these top-tier recruits from all over, getting them to visit is a must.

Thanks for reading. Roll Tide.