Khalid Kareem to Alabama: Crimson Tide Land 4-Star DE Prospect

Khalid Kareem, a 4-star defensive end from Harrison Community High School in Farmington, Michigan, announced his decision Wednesday to play college football at Alabama, per Nick Baumgardner of MLive Media Group.  

Kareem is the 10th-ranked strong-side defensive end in the class of 2016, according to 247Sports' composite rankings. The 6'4", 260-pound prospect racked up 85 tackles and 18 sacks as a junior, and he seems keen to make the leap to the NCAA level with an early commitment.

Before bulking up and moving into the trenches, Kareem showed the ability to play well in space as an outside linebacker. That offers an idea of the type of athleticism he possesses.

The highlight video below shows what Kareem did as a sophomore, prior to packing on a considerable amount of weight for his junior campaign:

In addition to having a quick first step that allows him to create leverage and be a tough task for blockers as a pass-rusher, he has a knack for disengaging blockers and setting the edge even when he is still fighting. That makes him a force to be reckoned with against the run as well.

The recent move to defensive end and the production therein suggests Kareem has plenty of upside still to explore. It will be an adjustment to play against much stiffer competition, but Kareem has the natural football instincts and the physical tools to make the jump and make an impact at an early stage of his collegiate career.

Alabama could even take advantage of Kareem's quickness for his size, try to bulk him up even more and give him a shot at the interior of the defensive line. He could be a matchup nightmare if he can strike a balance between functional strength and still maintain the skills that have made him an exciting 4-star recruit.

The more likely scenario is for Kareem to stay at his current position and compete for snaps there as he figures out what his niche for the Crimson Tide will be. By the time he's a junior, don't be surprised to see him crack the starting lineup and be a prominent contributor for Alabama.