The Alabama Crimson Tide is on a mission to revolutionize its tight end position, and 4-star prospect Mack Sutter is the key to unlocking this new era. Sutter, a 6-foot-5, 230-pound phenom from Illinois, has narrowed his choices to four finalists, with Alabama being one of them. This talented prospect has caught the attention of top programs across the country, and the battle for his commitment is heating up.
Coach Kalen DeBoer is pulling out all the stops to land Sutter, who will visit Tuscaloosa on June 20th. With his commitment decision looming just six days later, the Crimson Tide has a critical window to seal the deal. DeBoer’s aggressive pursuit of tight ends has already paid off in the 2025 cycle with the signing of Kaleb Edwards, and he’s determined to double-dip in the 2026 class.
Sutter’s recruitment is a battle royale, with powerhouses Ohio State and Ole Miss, as well as his home-state school Illinois, vying for his attention. But Alabama’s last visit advantage could be the game-changer. With early playing time on the table, Sutter could be the missing piece in the Crimson Tide’s offense. The Crimson Tide’s offense has been a playground for playmakers at WR, but a true difference-maker at TE has been elusive.
The Crimson Tide’s tight end position has been a area of need in recent years. CJ Dippre was Alabama’s leading receiver at the position last season with only 256 yards and no touchdowns. Irv Smith Jr. was the last real difference-maker at TE for Alabama, and the last player at the position to eclipse 500 receiving yards in a single season. Smith racked up 710 yards and seven touchdowns in his final season in Tuscaloosa in 2018.
DeBoer has been aggressive in his pursuit of tight ends in the last two cycles. Along with signing Edwards in the 2025 cycle, Alabama added 4-star Marshall Pritchett from the high school ranks. Alabama also added a pair of tight ends – Troy’s Brody Dalton and West Virginia’s Jack Sammarco – in the spring Transfer Portal.
This weekend is shaping up to be a recruiting bonanza for Alabama, with Sutter joining a trio of in-state 5-stars – WR Cederian Morgan, EDGE Anthony “Tank” Jones, and RB Ezavier Crowell – on official visits. DeBoer’s offense has been a showcase for talented players, and the addition of Sutter could take it to the next level. As the battle for Sutter’s commitment intensifies, one thing is certain – the Crimson Tide will leave no stone unturned in its pursuit of this talented prospect. Will Sutter join the Tide’s revolution, or will another program snag this talented prospect? The anticipation is building, and the world will be watching as Sutter makes his decision.
The Crimson Tide’s commitment to building a winning program is evident, and the recruitment of Sutter is a key part of that strategy. With its rich history, passionate fan base, and commitment to excellence, Alabama is an attractive destination for top prospects. The stakes are high, but DeBoer is confident in his team’s ability to attract top talent. With Sutter’s visit just around the corner, the Crimson Tide will pull out all the stops to land this talented tight end. The question on everyone’s mind is: will Sutter join the Tide, or will another program emerge victorious? The battle for Sutter’s commitment is heating up, and only time will tell.
