BREAKING NEWS: Garrett Gilbert Shocks Washington Commanders with Decommitment, Flips Commitment to Alabama Crimson Over Nebraska, Penn State, and Others
In a stunning turn of events, Garrett Gilbert, a highly coveted recruit in the 2024 class, has officially decommitted from the Washington Commanders, opting instead to commit to the Alabama Crimson Tide. The announcement sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting world, as the four-star quarterback’s decision to flip his commitment has left fans and analysts alike reeling.
Gilbert, a standout quarterback out of Texas, had previously pledged to the Washington Commanders in an unexpected but well-publicized move earlier this year. His commitment had been seen as a major coup for the Commanders, with many believing it would solidify the team’s future at the quarterback position. At the time, Gilbert’s decision was a hopeful sign for the team, which had been in search of a dynamic playmaker under center.
However, just as the Commanders were preparing to make their final push for the 2024 season with Gilbert as a potential cornerstone, the young signal-caller shocked the football world by announcing his decision to decommit. In a social media post that quickly went viral, Gilbert explained his reasons for flipping his commitment, stating, “After much reflection and with great respect for all the programs that recruited me, I have decided to pursue my future with the Alabama Crimson Tide. I’m excited for the opportunity to play for Coach Saban and be part of such a storied program.”
The news immediately caused a ripple effect across the college football landscape. Alabama, long known for its powerhouse football program, was already one of the most highly sought-after destinations for elite recruits, and Gilbert’s commitment only strengthens the team’s already impressive roster. Under head coach Nick Saban, Alabama has consistently remained one of the top programs in the country, attracting top talent from all over the nation. Gilbert, a dual-threat quarterback with impressive passing mechanics and athleticism, is seen as a perfect fit in the Tide’s high-powered offense.
This decommitment is particularly significant because it not only shakes up the Commanders’ recruiting plans but also highlights the intense competition among top-tier college football programs. Nebraska and Penn State, two schools that had been heavily involved in Gilbert’s recruitment, were also left disappointed by his decision. Both programs had been seen as strong contenders, with Nebraska offering a chance for Gilbert to help revive the program under new leadership, and Penn State being a respected contender in the Big Ten.
Gilbert’s decision to choose Alabama also places an added burden on Washington Commanders’ head coach Ron Rivera and his staff. After missing out on Gilbert, the team will now have to reassess its recruiting strategy and potentially turn its attention to other quarterback prospects, hoping to find someone who can step in and help lead the team in the future.
As for Gilbert, his commitment to Alabama is seen as a major statement in the college football world. With one of the most prestigious programs in the nation now in his corner, the young quarterback will be under intense scrutiny to live up to the legacy of Alabama’s past quarterbacks. He will have the opportunity to learn from one of the best in the game in Saban, which could have a profound impact on his development as he prepares for the next step in his football career.
The recruitment saga of Garrett Gilbert will certainly continue to be a story to follow, as he looks to help lead the Alabama Crimson Tide to new heights in the coming seasons. Meanwhile, Washington Commanders, Nebraska, and Penn State will have to regroup and find new paths forward in what is sure to be a competitive and evolving recruiting cycle.