Alabama football is flipping recruits like flapjacks.

Defensive back Rihyael Kelley flipped from Rutgers to the Crimson Tide, he told On3 on Monday.

Earlier Monday, Alabama also flipped running back Javari Barnett from Illinois. Last week, the Crimson Tide also flipped quarterback Jett Thomalla, who had been committed to Iowa State.

Kelley is a three-star defensive back per the 247Sports Composite, ranked the No. 85 safety in the country and the No. 1006 player in the 2026 recruiting class overall. He’s a 6-3, 180-pound prospect from Cincinnati, Ohio, playing for Winton Woods.

Kelley also has offers from Toledo, Bowling Green and other programs.

Other players Alabama has added in the 2026 class so far include defensive lineman JJ Finch, cornerback Jorden Edmonds, athlete Zyan Gibson, offensive lineman Sam Utu, edge defender Jamarion Matthews, offensive lineman Chris Booker and edge defender Kamhariyan Johnson.

BetMGM has Alabama at +1500 to win the National Championship. Our complete guide to Alabama’s championship odds provides an in-depth look at their chances to win it all.

Nick Kelly is an Alabama beat writer for AL.com and the Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X and Instagram.