Kendall Randolph to Alabama: Crimson Tide Land 4-Star OT Prospect

Alabama added more protection for the future to its offensive front when offensive tackle Kendall Randolph joined its 2017 recruiting class.

Randolph announced his commitment to the Crimson Tide in a video published by AL.com:

The 6’5”, 290-pounder is a 4-star prospect, per 247Sports’ composite rankings, and is the No. 179 overall player, the No. 22 offensive tackle and the No. 9 prospect from the state of Alabama.

Considering he is from right in their backyard, Randolph generated plenty of interest from SEC powerhouses Alabama and Auburn during the recruiting cycle. In fact, 100 percent of the "crystal ball" predictions on 247Sports were in favor of the Crimson Tide.

The connection to the Crimson Tide went deeper than just geography. Randolph’s older brother, Levi, played basketball for Alabama for four seasons and averaged 15.4 points a night in his senior campaign in 2014-15.

Other schools such as Florida State, Michigan, Memphis, Louisville, Tennessee and Clemson showed interest in Randolph at some point as well.

It is no wonder so many top-notch programs pursued him. He isn’t massively big for his height and brings impressive athleticism to the offensive line position. What’s more, he will likely add more strength and power as he develops inside an elite college program, so his ability to drive defensive linemen downfield will only improve moving forward.

Scout broke down the lineman’s game:

"

A big, strong blocker with good feet and athleticism. Has a great frame for an elite offensive lineman. Can fire off the ball and knock opponent backwards. Can get to the second level and down the field to block for his teammates. Very good feet and body control. Can play a little high. Needs to improve on pass sets and his footwork there. Has good reach and has real upside.

"

Randolph couldn't have picked a better school to help him develop as a football player. The defending national champion Crimson Tide have a knack for churning out top-tier offensive linemen, including recent NFL draft picks like Arie Kouandjio, Austin Shepherd and Cyrus Kouandjio. 

Head coach Nick Saban always operates with an embarrassment of riches on the offensive line. He's off to another strong start for 2017, with Randolph joining a group that also includes Alex Leatherwood and Elliot Baker. 

If Randolph and his new coaching staff can tap into that upside, he will likely develop into one of the key difference-makers in Alabama's 2017 recruiting class.