5-star DL James Smith commits to Alabama

Montgomery (Ala.) Carver five-star defensive lineman James Smith could have gone to any program he wanted in the country. He took officials to Auburn, Florida and Texas A&M.

But he said when push came to shove, there really weren’t any contenders that could stand up to Alabama.

“I like the school,” Smith told On3. “I like the coaching staff. I have a great relationship with the coaching staff. I felt like it was home for me.”

When looking at the Crimson Tide, he said the opportunity to work hard, have fun and win was a pretty unbeatable trio to top.

As an in-state player, he also had connections with players and coaches that have developed over time. He’s visited the school eight times.

“I know some of the players there,” Smith said. “The coaches, we get along. They know me. They just know me as a person. They know how I am.”

As for Nick Saban, Smith said he is the GOAT.

“He’s going to keep it real with you and he’s not going to lie,” Smith said.

Smith said that his mind was made up after visiting Alabama for the Vanderbilt game.

He added his big goal at Alabama is to be a first-team All-American.