"Bama is going to definitely be a top school in my options": Nation's No. 1 athlete Brandon Arrington preps for Alabama junior day

Five-star prospect Brandon Arrington, the nation's No. 1 athlete in the 2026 class, has scheduled multiple visits after the end of his junior season. The Mount Miguel High School (California) standout capped off his Oregon trip on Friday. His next visit will be to Kalen DeBoer's Alabama on Feb. 1 for the Crimson Tide’s Junior Day.

“I’m nowhere near committing yet, but Bama is going to definitely be a top school in my options," Arrington told 247Sports. "I know that 100 percent.”

Arrington’s junior season boosted his status as an elite talent, despite him sitting out of three games. He recorded 10 total touchdowns, one interception, seven pass breakups and two forced fumbles. His versatility has drawn the attention of college coaches as both a long-cover corner and a dynamic wide receiver.

A former Helix High School player, Arrington has a proven track record on both sides of the ball and recorded six touchdown receptions and a 65-yard punt return for a score in his sophomore season. He is one of the fastest sprinters in the nation, posting a blazing 10.27 in the 100-meter dash and 20.40 in the 200-meter.

Arrington is the No. 2 recruit in California and the No. 8 prospect in the nation, according to the On3 Industry Rankings.

Brandon Arrington shares his feelings about Alabama

Alabama's 2026 recruiting class currently includes only four-star cornerback Zyan Gibson, following the de-commitment of several players. However, the Crimson Tide has an opportunity to regain momentum in this cycle by potentially securing commitments from prospects like Brandon Arrington.

"Everything about Alabama is good,” Arrington shared with Touchdown Alabama after his July visit. “I feel like everything fits me; the city, the area and the coaching staff.”

However, Alabama is yet to be in the frontrunner seat for Arrington. As of now, Texas A&M is leading the race for his recruitment with a 93.4% chance of securing his commitment, according to On3.

Besides Brandon Arrington, Alabama is also pursuing multiple athletes in the 2026 class, including Jalen Lott, Joey O'Brien, Ryan Mosley, Prince Jean, Amari Sabb and Jordan Thomas.