Nick Saban led Alabama football back to the No. 1 spot on recruiting boards after a strong class. The Crimson Tide compiled 28 high schoolers to boost key positions next fall, like running back and in the trenches.

Through postseason showcase events and all-star games, some future players boosted their stock in the eyes of national evaluators. In the last week, On3 and Sports Illustrated have released the final rankings of how their scouts graded the seniors. Predictably, Alabama had the most recognized of any program.

Texas Longhorn quarterback Arch Manning held the title of best overall prospect for most of the year but each list went with another quarterback in the latest breakdowns. Michigan’s Dante Moore (committed to UCLA) was rated the best in the SI99, while Nico Iamaleava (a future Tennessee Volunteer by way of California), was awarded the crown by On3.

Notably, each service had Florida edge rusher Keon Keeley as the best high school defender among his peers, placing him second overall. Keeley was originally a Notre Dame commit but was part of a late wave of blue-chip editions from Alabama. He totaled 17 sacks as a senior.

Keeley and Georgia Safety Caleb Downs gave Alabama two players in the SI top 10. Eufaula outside linebacker Yhonzae Pierre continued gaining recognition after a strong camp circuit, coming in at No. 60 after previously being left off the board.

In On3′s ratings, the Tide landed 14 players in the top 100. Downs, Pierre and Texas defensive lineman Jordan Renaud earned higher ratings within the top 100. Offensively, five-star Iowa tackle Kadyn Proctor and Texas receiver Jalen Hale rose within the top 60. The biggest risers were offensive lineman Olaus Alinen (up 73 slots to No. 203 overall) and Mississippi quarterback-turned-safety Brayson Hubbard (who cracked the list for the first time.)

The latest NCAA dead period concluded last week and coaches have already started work on the class of 2024. Though there seems to be one huge piece still available. Cornerback Cormani McClain was slated to sign with Miami, and has reaffirmed his commitment to the Hurricanes, but has yet to put pen to paper. Colorado appears to be in the lead for McClain, but Alabama has remained a contender throughout a murky recruitment. McClain is third on the SI99 and No. 46 in the On300.

Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].