Jalen Cunningham, four-star defensive tackle from St. Clair County High School in Odenville, Alabama, was ready to shine at Alabama's camp in June. He started going through warm-ups and drills before the beginning of individual drills and one-on-ones. He knew something was wrong.
Cunningham suffered turf toe and did not participate in any camp activities. He had surgery and was expected to miss up to the first three games of his senior season.
"I started practicing on Monday," said an excited Cunningham. "I have been practicing all week. I am coming back healthy and stronger. I recovered faster than they thought I would.
"I was thinking I would be out longer. I've been doing physical therapy ever since I had the surgery. I am good to play on Friday night. Every single coach knows I am back.
"I talked to UCLA. I talked to Coach Dunbar from Alabama. I talked to Coach Luke from Ole Miss. I talked to Coach Gonzales (Mississippi State). I talked to Coach Garner from Auburn. I have talked to most of the coaches recruiting me."
He was in Atlanta on Saturday night for the Crimson Tide's 24-7 win against Florida State.
