Alabama reels in five-star DE Eyabi Anoma

Five-star Eyabi Anoma doesn't talk about his recruitment much but actions speak louder than words. The Baltimore (Md.) St. Frances defensive end has pretty much become a regular on Alabama's campus this year and he signed with the Crimson Tide today.

IN HIS WORDS…

“It was a cool visit,” Anoma said after a visit to Tuscaloosa in November. “I got to see the atmosphere of a really crazy game with a big booster club. There were people that really die for Alabama. People are huge fans there and even have tattoos of Alabama. That’s the type of environment I like to see because it’s a real football town and I’d be welcome there. I’ve never seen an environment like that.

“It was cool talking to the coaches,” he said. “We just talked football. They’ve been looking at my film and evaluating me. They let me know some of the things I need to work on. I talk to them about everything I am good at and what I need to get better at because I’m starting to stand up a little more. I got some really good feedback. I’ve been working on that stuff ever since I came back home."

COACH'S REACTION

The defensive end out of Baltimore (Md.) St. Frances brings a lot to the table and Messay Hailemariam, the St. Frances Director of Operations and Recruiting Coordinator, has seem Anoma's progress first hand.

"I haven't been more amazed by a player whose his play really caught up with his abilities," said Hailemariam. "His progression was amazing. I was just talking about how coach Sam Poggi, the defensive line coach, did a tremendous job of making him not just an effective pass rusher, but a dangerous one too. He's really embraced the role of being a high caliber pass rusher and understanding the nuances of the game. He's become much more effective on the field."

Anoma projects as a defensive end/linebacker hybrid but he'll have to learn how to fit into that role. Hailemariam doesn't think that will be a problem.

"Eyabi is as athletic as you can get at that position," he said. "He does have the outside linebacker hybrid body type but he is so good instinctually that he had three interceptions last year. He's showed his talent by having to chase quick and fast quarterbacks but also by having to cover some backs out of the backfield. I think the transition won't be as difficult because he is very agile and has good feet and vision. He's going to be effective at the next level."

Nick Saban will have a big time weapon in Anoma. Hailemariam says all he needs to do is point it in the right direction.

"Wherever Eyabi ends up, I think he has the gifts and the skillset to fit in with the system," Hailemariam said. "They (the coaches) will understand what they have and they will utilize him the best they can. He's a tough kid.

RIVALS' REACTION…

Anoma is a special player that brings an unmatched intensity to the field. His aggressiveness, speed, and improving hand techniques give even the most talented offensive linemen problems. One of the most impressive things about Anoma's game is his relentless motor. His burst off the line and drive to chase the ball carrier until the end of the play helps him make plays that most defensive ends don't usually make. Anoma could be the next great outside linebacker for the Crimson Tide.