"Bama is the place to be if you want to go to the league": 2026 class prospect Brandon Arrington has impressive comments before Alabama visit

Brandon Arrington, a standout 2026 class prospect from Mount Miguel High School in Spring Valley, California, has become one of the most sought-after recruits.

Among over two dozen Division I offers, those from Oklahoma, Georgia, Texas and Syracuse are notable. But Alabama's early entry into the recruitment race adds weight to his recruitment journey.

Despite not yet visiting Tuscaloosa, Arrington speaks highly of Alabama due to its success at producing elite players in several positions.

“That basically tells you that’s the school you want to go if you play receiver,” Arrington told On3. “Or even DB. They also had Pat Surtain and all these great athletes. Bama is the place to be if you want to go to the league.”

Arrington has also bonded well with Alabama co-offensive coordinator and wide receiver coach, JaMarcus Shephard, whom he lauded for his constant success at the position.

“I know coach Shephard is a great coach. He coached a lot of great people. Went to a national championship, so I know coach Shephard will get the job done. He is recruiting a lot of great athletes and is doing a good job recruiting.. He’s gotten guys to the league."

Though there is no favorite program on Arrington's list right now, he has Alabama on his top list.

“Bama is definitely one of my top schools right now. 100 percent. I’m really interested in that school. They’ve shown some of the most love out of all the schools that hit me up. They tap in all the time. They stay in contact. I like stuff like that. That shows me that I’m wanted and they want me to be there.”

Beyond football, Arrington has a personal connection to Alabama, with family ties in the state. His grandfather is a native Alabamian and a big fan of the program as well. He plans to take his grandfather when he goes there for an official visit.

The Crimson Tide currently has cornerbacks Dorian Barney and Jamarrion Gordon committed to the 2026 class.

USC is trending for Brandon Arrington's commitment

According to On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine, the USC Trojans hold a 26.0% chance to secure Brandon Arrington's commitment. This surge places them in direct competition with San Diego State, previously considered the leading contender, whose chances have slightly dipped from 31.3% to 29.7%.

“Growing up, I just liked USC,” Arrington told On3. “I’ve seen their history. I went to Helix and Reggie Bush went to Helix, so I looked up to Reggie Bush. I looked up to Adoree’ Jackson. I looked up to all those guys. I used to watch them a lot, so they’ve influenced me to always want to go to USC.”

Arrington is the No. 2 recruit in California, the No. 1 athlete in the 2026 class, and the No. 7 overall player in the nation, according to On3. 247 Sports ranks him as the No. 8 recruit in California, the No. 7 athlete in the class and the No. 66 overall player in the state.

Brandon Arrington had transferred to Mount Miguel after starting his career at Helix High School and made a huge impact on both offense and defense last season. He recorded 14 receptions for 426 yards and six touchdowns on offense, while also contributing 18 solo tackles and seven pass deflections from the secondary.