Richie Petitbon Commits to Alabama: 4-Star Vaults Tide to No. 1 Ranking

Alabama added another outstanding offensive lineman to its stockpile with a commitment from 4-star prospect Richie Petitbon. The Washington D.C. recruit pulled the trigger on a pledge Friday, reports Scout.com writer Derek Young.

Petitbon, a 6'4", 301-pound Gonzaga High School junior, joins a Crimson Tide class that now includes nine players. His addition pushed Alabama's class from No. 3 to No. 1 in 247Sports' composite team rankings, leapfrogging Penn State and Texas A&M.

Nick Saban lands a lineman capable of contributing in a variety of capacities. He has significant experience at left tackle but could move inside depending on Alabama's needs along the offensive front.

The Tide have tremendous depth at tackle, so a future within the interior may await him in Tuscaloosa:

Petitbon has an excellent football pedigree. He's the latest member of his family to make a leap to the college level.

His father played at Maryland. Petitbon's name may sound familiar because his grandfather, Richie, was an All-Pro defensive back in the NFL.

He finished his career with the Washington Redskins and served as defensive coordinator under Joe Gibbs. The football lineage makes Petitbon an even more intriguing prospect, given the game knowledge at his disposal while growing up. 

Petitbon is the seventh 4-star prospect to commit to the Tide during this cycle. He is rated No. 4 nationally at offensive guard in 247Sports' composite rankings.

Gonzaga produced 2,400 yards rushing yards last fall with Petitbon paving the way, according to AL.com.

Saban has swiftly taken care of future depth in the trenches. Alabama already holds commitments from fellow 4-star guards Lester Cotton and Dallas Warmack.