4-star Louisiana ATH Slade Bolden locked in with Alabama
The Latest: Versatile West Monroe, La. athlete Slade Bolden surprised some when he committed to Alabama over TCU and LSU over the summer but now that he's a couple of months into his commitment, he has nothing but good things to say about his decision. Rivals.com recently caught up with Bolden to talk about his season so far, get his thoughts on the Tide's new offensive coordinator as well as his plans for visits going forward.
In His Words: "It's been a relief since I committed. I finally found the right place for me and I'm just glad it's over with. I didn't rush anything. I wanted to make sure it was right and I'm excited. I know there's going to be a target on my back being an Alabama commit but it doesn't matter."
On why he knew Alabama was right for him: "I just know I would really click in their offense. I really like the coaches, the whole coaching staff. Obviously I enjoyed the facilities and the atmosphere and the whole vibe over there. Everybody there expects your best and I like to go out and compete at the highest level. I felt like the offensive coordinator was happy when I committed and I felt like we had a good bond and I feel like he wants a guy that can play a little slot and be like the guys he's had in the past at New England."
On his fit in the Tide offense: Coach Saban told me clearly that I'm still coming down as an athlete, if I need to play running back, outside, or even play defense you can. But I feel like Coach Daboll wants to see me in that slot position ... We sat down and watched film on what he's planning on doing with me and I feel like it's a great thing for me as a slot guy."
On playing defensive back for his high school team: "I just kind of watch the quarterbacks eyes and react. Playing quarterback myself I can really take a lot away from what they do. If they take three steps I know they're going deep and if they take one it's going to be quick."
On potentially taking other visits: "I haven't had many schools talk to me. TCU every now and then. I'm not looking at other schools. I might go to a Louisiana Tech game or something just to go watch some college football but I'm not going to try to go chasing after other schools. Once I'm committed I'm committed."
On his official visit plan: "I haven't booked anything yet but I plan on taking it the weekend they play LSU."
Rivals Reaction: Bolden is taking an old fashioned approach to the recruiting process saying that he considers his commitment much like a marriage and he has no plans of stepping out on Alabama. His versatile skillset is why Alabama liked him so much and he's doing a nice job of showcasing it so far this season.