Xavier McKinney Decommits from Alabama: Latest Comments and Reaction

Xavier McKinney, one of the most coveted safeties in the 2017 recruiting class, announced Thursday he's decommitting from Alabama in order to reconsider his options. 

McKinney posted his decision on Twitter. He stated there's no timetable to make a final choice about where he's going to play college football.

Here's the Roswell High School (Georgia) standout's entire message:

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First of all I would like to thank all of my family, coaches and friends for supporting me through this decision. I would also like to thank coach [Nick] Saban and [defensive backs] coach [Derrick] Ansley and the whole Alabama staff that gave me this opportunity but I would like to open my options back up by de-committing. I feel this is the best thing to do so I can re-evaluate things. There is no timetable for a decision. I would like no interviews from anyone at this time. Thank you.

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McKinney originally committed to Alabama last September. He told Woody Wommack of Rivals at the time there was something unique about the Crimson Tide program: "Just being up there felt right. The atmosphere, their campus and their coaching staff. It was a special feeling when I went up there, and that kind of is what led me to this decision."

He also admitted he had thoughts about letting the process play out, though: "At first I was thinking I should wait it out, but then I felt like I should make the decision now because Alabama is a great place and the place for me."

Ultimately, that initial gut feeling must have continued to linger, because now he's going to see what else may be available around the country.

Chris Kirschner of SEC Country noted in June the safety had continued to do his homework on other schools while committed to Alabama. He listed Florida and Clemson as the programs of interest.

McKinney is a 4-star prospect who checks in at No. 108 overall in the 2017 class, according to 247Sports' composite rankings. He also rates at the No. 11 safety and the No. 13 recruit from the state of Georgia. The outlet lists him as having received 11 offers so far.

Based on his comments, it sounds like he's going back to square one just to make sure before announcing his official decision. He didn't rule out eventually recommitting to Alabama, but it's unclear where the Tide rank as he restarts the evaluation procedure.