Alabama beats Miami for Rivals 250 DE Kevin Harris
At one time it looked like Kevin Harris would end up at LSU. The Tigers slid back to a distant third place over the last few weeks though and it came down to Alabama and Miami.
The 6-foot-4, 218 pound edge rusher out of Loganville (Ga.) Grayson was leaning one way last week, but made his final decision a few days ago. It was a grind for Harris and he breaks his commitment to Alabama down.
IN HIS OWN WORDS: "I was leaning towards Miami, but decided over the weekend that it was Alabama for me," said Harris. "I had a talk with my parents and they said it was my decision — my first grown man decision and I just did what was best for me. I feel Alabama is the best school for me.
"It was a tough decision. We narrowed down each school very well and I did a lot of research to help me make the decision. I have goals that I want to accomplish and I never want to cut myself short and I think Alabama can help get me there. They can get me where I want to be. Alabama pushes their players 100-percent and that is where I want to be.
"I did go back and forth. I had a lot to think about. I took some great visits and it was a tough decision, but it is clear to me now that Alabama is the best fit. I have visited there a couple of times and I like the vibe. It is a great place. I like the people in Tuscaloosa and everything is top of the line.
"When I told the Alabama coaches that I was committing, they were very excited. They said they have done a lot of research about me and that they really like me. They told me that I am their guy and they are confident in my ability. I am confident in them helping me get better too.
"It is a different feeling for me now that I am committed. I am just ready to work harder to prepare myself for Alabama. I am sure some college coaches will still hit me up, but I am excited about the recruiting process being over. I am excited about going to Alabama."
RIVALS REACTION: Harris is one of the hardest working prospects in this class and he loves to compete. He is non-stop in the weight room and he will be prepared to work at Alabama. As an edge rusher, he is all about speed and quickness. He still needs to add weight and strength to his frame, but his get-off is strong and once he turns that corner, it is over. He has great length and he will likely be used as a stand-up linebacker in Alabama's defense.
