Alabama in top three for Five-Star Plus+ safety

Alabama went into Georgia during the ’23 recruiting cycle and signed the top two recruits in the state (Caleb Downs, Justice Haynes). The Crimson Tide hopes it can sign the No. 1 safety in the ’24 class for the second consecutive year. Alabama laid out its plan for KJ Bolden, five-star plus+ safety from Buford High School, during his final official visit this weekend.

Bolden has visited Alabama several times with the most recent trip (prior to the official visit) in April. He returned to the Capstone one last time before a decision. He was joined by his parents, sister and grandmother.

“Being being able to Coach (Nick) Saban one-on-one and hear that he believes in my ability to come in and compete right away,” Bolden responded when asked the best part of his visit with Alabama.

“I would be able to play a lot of places. I could play the nickel or free (safety), even the star. I think my role would be perfect. I played with Caleb (Downs), and honestly there’s a sense of confidence when you know he gonna go hard just like me.”

There has been a lot of speculation as to which school is in the driver’s seat. Most suspect a decision will come down between Georgia and Ohio State. Bolden also took official visits to Clemson and Florida State. Auburn is also still under consideration for an official this fall. Alabama seems right in the mix with Bulldogs and Buckeyes.

“Bama is right at the top,” he said. “They have always been in my top three. It’s a life decision, so a lot of factors come into it. Now that these visits are over I can take some time, talk to my family and make the best decision.

“Just got to weigh-in, not just football, but the educational standpoint (plans to major in Sports Management) as well. It’s also important how my parents feel and their ability to watch me play.”

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Will the Buford to ‘Bama pipeline continue?

From left to right: Justice Haynes, KJ Bolden, Isaiah Bond

Bolden has seen several players from his school sign with the Tide including UGA legacy Justice Haynes. He was around all of them this weekend. He had two player hosts in T-Town: Isaiah Bond (another former Buford star) and Malachi Moore.

“I spent time with Justice Haynes, Isaiah Bond, Malachi Moore and a lot of other players,” Bolden said. “The message was clear; come help us win a natty.

“You know it has always been a Buford-Bama pipeline thing. So I am used to it. My guys want me there for sure.”

Travaris Robinson has spent a lot of time recruiting the best in Georgia. T-Rob and Kevin Steele spent a lot of time with Bolden during the visit. They have left a strong impression on the No. 5 overall player in the country per the On3 Industry Ranking.

“Both are great men,” Bolden said. “It was an honor to be around guys with that type of knowledge and success. Also to know that they feel like I’m worthy of being one of the next Bama greats.”

A decision is expected prior to the start of the season. A commitment date has not been announced yet.

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