Future Alabama teammate and 5-star wide receiver named “recruiter of the year”

Two of Alabama’s greatest high school players will sharpen their skills at the University of Alabama.

Ryan Williams and Jaylen Mbakwe are excellent athletes and young men.

The two became close after competing against each other in Class 6A. Williams was a standout wide receiver at Saraland High School, while Mbakwe played quarterback, receiver, defensive back, and return specialist at Clay-Chalkville High School. Both advanced to the state championship match at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Williams and Mbakwe put on an unforgettable performance, as Mbakwe led Clay-Chalkville to a 31-28 triumph. Both are five-star athletes who will face each other again in practice.

Williams hopes to earn out a starting role at receiver, while Mbakwe will play defensive back.

Mbakwe was adamant about playing with his best pal. People were anxious that Williams might leave once Nick Saban announced his retirement, but Mbakwe refused to lose his player to another school. He was instrumental in Williams’ official visit to the Crimson Tide, rolling out the red carpet for his friend and family.

Alabama commit Ryan Williams on his relationship with his future teammate Jaylen Mbakwe: @abc3340

"He gets recruiter of the year. Long story short he gets recruiter of the year." pic.twitter.com/ZwVSrQWKHK

— Chris McCulley (@ChrisMcCulleyTV) January 30, 2024

After winning the “Mr. Alabama” Award for the second year in a row, Williams expressed his eagerness to play with Mbakwe.

“He gets recruiter of the year,” Williams remarked of Mbakwe. “Long story short, he wins recruiter of the year. He refers to himself as my best buddy. I’m excited to play with him. “He’s a great kid.”

Alabama fans had the pleasure of seeing two outstanding athletes compete in high school, and now they have the opportunity to do likewise in college for the Crimson Tide.