Alabama Recruiting: Most Important Prospects Nick Saban Has Landed Thus Far

While many might think Nick Saban is relaxing and enjoying the win over the LSU Tigers in the BCS National Championship Game, that is far from the truth. He is hard at work on the recruiting trail. 

There's only a few weeks left until National Signing Day, and if Saban wishes to keep his Alabama as the No. 1 overall recruiting class for 2012, he's going to have to land a few more recruits. 

This shouldn't be a problem, especially since the Crimson Tide just won the title. As for the talent Saban has already reeled in, several of them are going to be big-time players fairly soon. 

Every recruit is crucial, but realistically, some are much more important than others. With that said, here are the three most important recruits Saban has landed so far. 

Landon Collins, S 

Debated as the No. 1 safety in the class of 2012, Collins is a mega-splash for the Crimson Tide because he chose them over the LSU Tigers. 

Collins grew up about half an hour away from Baton Rouge, and many believed he was a lock to go to LSU. After all, Les Miles typically dominates the state of Louisiana in recruiting. 

The best part about Collins' decision is that it came before Alabama's impressive win over the Tigers in the BCS National Championship Game. It proved Saban can go virtually wherever he wants to land the top players in the country. 

It's just a verbal commit, so Collins could easily change his mind. However, after shutting out LSU in the title game, Collins is probably feeling pretty good about picking Alabama. 

Saban and Crimson Tide fans sure are glad he did because the 6'0", 210-pound safety is going to be a solid player. 

Eddie Williams, ATH 

The No. 1 athlete and No. 9 overall player according to ESPN, Williams is sure to shine as a member of the Crimson Tide.

Listed at 6'4", 210 pounds, Williams has the skills to play safety, outside linebacker or wide receiver for Alabama.

His versatility makes him unique and special, which is why he was such a crucial pickup for the Crimson Tide.

Where he plays will be decided by Saban and his staff, but wherever it is, Williams is going to make an impact because he's that good of a player.

Adam Griffith, K 

You might be wondering why a kicker made this list. Hear me out.

Everyone saw the kicking troubles Alabama had this year. While Jeremy Shelley made five field goals in the title game, he still missed one as well as an extra point. 

Griffith is arguably the best kicker in the country and most certainly has the clutch gene. His team sent him out to kick the game winning field goal in overtime of the state championship game on first down.

Yeah, he's that good, and that is why he is one of Saban's best pickups so far. Alabama needs a kicker it can trust and Griffith has the leg strength and accuracy to be that guy. 

He may only be a freshman next year, but he'll definitely be competing for the starting role.