1 American football program secures commitment from five-star wide receiver, my reason for choosing Alabama Crimson Tide over North Carolina and Michigan State…
In what’s being heralded as one of the biggest recruiting wins of the 2025 cycle, the Alabama Crimson Tide has secured a verbal commitment from five-star wide receiver Jaylen “Jet” Rivers, the No. 2 receiver and No. 7 overall prospect in the ESPN 300. Rivers, a 6’2” playmaker from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, had narrowed his choices to Alabama, North Carolina, and Michigan State, but ultimately chose to take his talents to Tuscaloosa.
Rivers made his announcement on national television this morning, donning the signature crimson cap and declaring, “There’s just something about Bama. The tradition, the championships, the development—they check every box.”
Why I Chose Alabama
From day one, Alabama felt different. When I stepped on campus, I could feel the legacy. I saw the national championship banners, I walked through the Mal M. Moore Athletic Facility, and I met players who were once in my shoes but now play on Sundays. It wasn’t just about the flash—it was about the future.
Coach Kalen DeBoer and the offensive staff showed me a plan tailored to my strengths. They broke down tape of how they’d use me in motion, on the boundary, and in the slot. It wasn’t just a vision—it was a blueprint. I want to be challenged, and Alabama has the competition in practice and the structure off the field to push me to be elite.
When it came to choosing between Alabama, North Carolina, and Michigan State, it came down to three key factors: development, exposure, and winning culture.
Development
Alabama’s track record with wide receivers speaks for itself. Julio Jones, Amari Cooper, Calvin Ridley, Jerry Jeudy, DeVonta Smith, Jameson Williams—the list goes on. They don’t just recruit stars; they create pros. I want to be coached hard, and I want to compete against the best. There’s no better place to do that than Alabama.
Exposure
Playing in the SEC means every game is a stage. From the Iron Bowl to potential playoff appearances, every snap matters. I want my name called on the biggest Saturdays in college football. With Alabama’s national platform, I know I’ll have that chance.
Winning Culture
At Alabama, winning isn’t the goal—it’s the expectation. That mindset is contagious. It’s not about individual stats; it’s about rings, banners, and legacy. I want to be part of something bigger than myself, and the Tide’s locker room felt like family from the jump.
Final Thoughts
I have nothing but respect for Coach Mack Brown at UNC and Coach Jonathan Smith at Michigan State. They made this decision tough. But at the end of the day, I followed my heart—and my heart led me to Alabama.
Roll Tide.
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