2024 DB commit updates Alabama commitment status
Alabama defensive back commitment Jameer Grimsley made his way up to Florida this past weekend for an official visit.
Right after the visit’s conclusion, Grimsley spoke with reporters about his multi-day stay in Gainesville. He also shared some quick thoughts on the Crimson Tide and the distinction between these two programs, which you can read HERE.
BamaOnLine also had an opportunity to catch up with Grimsley for a more in-depth conversation about his commitment status and where things stand with Alabama.
“I’m still fully committed,” Grimsley told BOL.
A key part of Florida’s pursuit was defensive backs coach Corey Raymond, who was let go by the program earlier this month.
Grimsley, the No. 15 cornerback in the On300, outlined the main reasons why he continues to remain loyal with his pledge to Bama.
“Just the stability,” Grimsley said. “Now, with the Florida coaches I was talking to getting fired, it’s the stability and relationships I’ve built [with Alabama] to this point. I’ve built a relationship with Alabama and the recruiting staff. Bama has been a stable program for quite some time. It doesn’t seem like it’s changing.
“People try to say it’s a down year, but yet they’re 12-1. I don’t know how that’s a down year. About to win a natty, and it’s a down year because of a loss to a good Texas team… it’s not going to matter. I really think they’re going to win a national championship. I don’t see anybody beating them. And if they rematch Texas, I’m almost positive they’ll win that matchup.”
A good portion of BOL’s conversation with Grimsley centered around Alabama’s 2023 season. He was particularly impressed by their response to the aforementioned Texas game and the adjustments that Nick Saban‘s staff made.
Does their performance this year make Grimsley feel more comfortable with his decision?
“It does,” Grimsley replied. “It shows that they were able to make changes. The coaching, right? The mindset of the team, they were able to overcome adversity. The hate that was put on the boys when people gave up on them, specifically Milroe… I’m proud of what they’ve done and how they overcame certain struggles.
“They didn’t let what people were saying in the media about how this is the weakest Bama team and all that get to them. They were able to persevere.”
Grimsley, who considered Florida State and even took an official visit there in June, shared his thoughts on Alabama making the College Football Playoff.
“I feel bad for Florida State, but Alabama deserved it,” Grimsley said. “They beat the No. 1 team in the country, won the SEC Championship, and are a completely different team. Changed the offensive scheme.
“They handled adversity very well,” Grimsley continued. “Created an offense that was better suited for Jalen Milroe‘s strengths. They had him as a pocket passer against Texas with no designed runs. Now, they’ve figured out how to use him.”
The top-100 prospect also drew another distinction between Bama and Florida when assessing their two seasons.
“It might be because it’s a young team with not as much experience, but you know those moments when the game is on the line and you have to overcome certain things, Florida this season wasn’t able to do that,” Grimsley said. “Whereas, Bama has found… you can see it on fourth-and-31, they were able to somehow find a way to win. That’s one of the things about Bama: They find a way to win when it matters.”
Jameer Grimsley continues to think highly of Nick Saban, Travaris Robinson
On Tuesday, Jameer Grimsley will play host to Nick Saban and Travaris Robinson for an in-home visit. This will be Robinson’s second time coming to see him as he also made his way to Tampa last Monday. During that trip, he had lunch with Grimsley’s parents, and saw Grimsley at his school, Tampa Catholic.
Father of Alabama DB commit recaps meeting with Travaris Robinson
Grimsley enjoyed their conversation last week, and continues to speak highly of Robinson.
“I still feel the same way: Great coach. Wants what’s best for me, wants what’s best for the team,” Grimsley said. “I think he can develop me and get the best out of my potential. We have a strong relationship that we’ve been building over this recruiting process that I appreciate.”
Grimsley was honest in his assessment about the stability at head coach at Bama with Saban versus the multiple coaches that Florida has had over the years.
The fact that Saban coaches his position group, in particular, is of high intrigue for Grimsley.
“It really means a lot because it shows the stability in the program,” Grimsley told us. “Coach Saban coaches my position group, specifically. He coaches the corners. It would be a privilege to have the best college football coach of all time coaching your specific position.”
In that post-visit conversation on UF’s campus on Sunday, Grimsley discussed what he will be weighing going forward.
“It’s just a decision I’ve got to make,” Grimsley said. “Do I want to be a part of a rebuild situation where, eventually, Florida could become good if we get the right dudes? Or go somewhere that’s already established? It’s a safer option.
“I feel like that’s what they’re saying to go to Bama because everything is established and a stable environment,” Grimsley continued. “That’s something I have to figure out for myself after me and this DBs coach… see how things go from there.”
So, when is Grimsley hoping to make his final decision?
“This weekend,” Grimsley replied.
Grimsley maintained his plans to sign on Dec. 20, and participate in bowl prep with Alabama after the Christmas break. He will not be taking any other visits before signing, and will host both Bama (Tuesday) and Florida (Friday) this week.
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