Ekene Ogboko is rated as a 4-Star prospect and is ranked as one of the best players at his position in the class.
The University of Alabama’s football program is intensifying its recruitment efforts for the 2026 class, focusing on premier offensive line talents to bolster its future roster. Among the standout prospects is five-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell from Nixa High School in Missouri. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-7.5 and weighing 305 pounds, Cantwell has garnered attention nationwide for his exceptional skills and physical attributes.
Cantwell’s recruitment journey has been marked by significant interactions with Alabama’s coaching staff. In January 2025, head coach Kalen DeBoer, offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic, and general manager Courtney Morgan visited Missouri to meet with Cantwell. This visit underscored Alabama’s commitment to securing top-tier talent and highlighted the strong ties between Cantwell and Coach Kapilovic. Their connection dates back to Kapilovic’s tenure at Michigan State, and their shared roots in Missouri have further solidified their rapport. Cantwell noted, “We had some ties from Michigan State… When he got to Bama, we already had that connection.”
Cantwell’s admiration for Coach DeBoer is evident. He praised DeBoer’s consistent success across various coaching positions, stating, “He’s a proven winner. He’s won everywhere he’s been.” This respect, combined with Alabama’s storied football tradition, positions the Crimson Tide as a formidable contender in Cantwell’s recruitment.
In addition to Cantwell, Alabama is actively pursuing Bear McWhorter, a four-star interior offensive lineman from Cass High School in Georgia. Measuring 6-foot-4 and weighing 290 pounds, McWhorter has established himself as a dominant force on the field. His recent junior day visit to Alabama further strengthened his interest in the program. Reflecting on the trip, McWhorter expressed, “They’re in really strong standing… I feel great about them at this point in my recruitment.”
During his visit, McWhorter engaged with head coach Kalen DeBoer and experienced the university’s facilities firsthand. He remarked, “I got to meet with Coach DeBoer… It is always a good time with those guys.” This positive experience, coupled with Alabama’s renowned football culture, has positioned the Crimson Tide as a top contender for McWhorter’s commitment.
Alabama’s strategic approach to recruiting these elite offensive linemen reflects its dedication to maintaining a dominant presence in collegiate football. By targeting and building relationships with top prospects like Cantwell and McWhorter, the Crimson Tide aims to ensure the strength and depth of its offensive line in the coming years.
The recruitment landscape is highly competitive, with multiple programs vying for these standout athletes. Cantwell, for instance, has narrowed his choices to several prestigious programs, including Alabama, Nebraska, Miami, and others. Similarly, McWhorter has attracted interest from numerous top-tier schools, making Alabama’s efforts to secure his commitment all the more critical.
As the recruitment process progresses, official visits will play a pivotal role in shaping these athletes’ decisions. Alabama’s ability to showcase its program’s strengths, from coaching expertise to facilities and culture, will be instrumental in persuading these top prospects to join the Crimson Tide.
In conclusion, Alabama’s proactive engagement with premier offensive line prospects like Jackson Cantwell and Bear McWhorter underscores the program’s commitment to excellence. By fostering strong relationships and highlighting the unique opportunities available at Alabama, the Crimson Tide is well-positioned to secure the talent necessary to sustain its legacy of success in collegiate football.
