Chris Williams Commits to Alabama: Crimson Tide Land Talented 4-Star Safety

The Crimson Tide have received their third commitment to the 2014 recruiting class: 4-star safety Chris Williams.

Williams is from Kingsland, Georgia, so he's another state of Georgia recruit for Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide. He is also ranked as the No. 34 safety in the 2014 class, according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings. Williams checks in at 6'1'', 169 pounds.

It's also worth noting that Williams is teammates with Kalvaraz Bessent, who just recently committed to Alabama.

Williams announced his decision to commit to Alabama on Twitter:

Andrew Bone of Rivals.com also confirmed the commitment via his Twitter account:

Williams chose the Crimson Tide over Auburn, North Carolina and Ole Miss—all who have extended him offers. Ohio State was also a program on his 247Sports interest list, though the Buckeyes have yet to make an offer to the 4-star safety.

Williams could end up being a big addition for the Crimson Tide, especially in regards to depth at safety. That's going to be an area of need in a few seasons as Vinnie Sunseri, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Nick Perry and Jarrick Williams all eventually move on.

Alabama will need a star to play at safety with Landon Collins, but the Crimson Tide will also need depth at the position as well.

Missing out on 2013 safety Vonn Bell was a big recruiting loss for Saban and the Crimson Tide, but they did land 4-star 2013 safety Anthony Averett, who should provide that much needed depth.

Williams could end up being an important depth player as well if he remains committed, and that will fill a huge need for Alabama.

Even though Williams does represent a big safety commitment, I wouldn't count Alabama out in the race for 5-star safety Laurence Jones (top three) or 4-star safety Ronnie Clark (top two) though.

Note: Top teams according to each players respective 247Sports interest list

Recruiting talent at the safety position will be a must for Alabama during this 2014 cycle.

So while Williams is a huge commitment in that regard, I'd be surprised if he ends up being the only safety recruit Saban brings in.  

Also, consider the fact that he Crimson Tide are still searching for that star safety, and Jones in particular has the talent to be the guy. He'll still be a major target for Alabama.

Still, getting his commitment early is big, and the 6'1'', 169-pound Williams has good potential and room to grow. 

Overall, this is a great commitment for Alabama and it's a sign of things to come for the 2014 class.