Alabama loses recruit after late grayshirt conversation.

Alabama lost a commitment from in-state linebacker Riley Cole after what Cole suggests was a surprise twist to his recruitment in the days leading into National Signing Day, which is set for Feb. 3.

According to a tweet from linebacker himself, the parting of ways is the result of the Crimson Tide coaching staff’s recent decision to begin discussing Grayshirting Cole, who was previously promised a full and immediate scholarship. "Grayshirt" is a term used to define a prospect that signs a letter of intent on Signing Day but is not permitted to report for fall practices with his teammates. Instead, a grayshirted student-athlete delays enrollment and any scholarship benefits until the spring semester, keeping the NCAA five-year eligibility clock from getting started.

Cole, who committed to Alabama in June, will now be forced to start the process of seeking another school with which to sign a letter of intent. Alabama is not permitted to comment on the recruitment of unsigned student athletes, thus will not be permitted to represent its side of the situation.