Four-star tight end Israel Briggs has proven to be a defensive nightmare during one-on-one matchups. His athleticism led his offer count to more than double-digits, with the latest program to join the race being Kalen DeBoer's Alabama Crimson Tide.
Briggs announced the scholarship news on X, tagging Alabama tight end coach Bryan Ellis:
"I’m Very blessed to receive an offer from The University of Alabama!!!! ❤️🤍 #rolltide🐘. @BryanEllisUA @GregBiggins @BrandonHuffman @recruitcoachmc @ChadSimmons_."
Alabama's interest in Briggs is no surprise, given his unique skill set and impressive high school career. He attends Mt. Whitney High School in California, where he has excelled in various positions on the field. Starting as a quarterback, Briggs later transitioned to running back and wide receiver, showcasing his ability to evade defenders and be a constant threat after the catch.
This season, Briggs has taken on the role of tight end. He is ranked as the No. 227 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 12 tight end in the 2026 class, and the No. 27 recruit in California, per On3 Industry Rankings.
Fresno State leads the race for Israel Briggs' commitment
Israel Briggs has yet to narrow down his list of leading college programs, but Fresno State currently appears to have an edge in his recruitment. The Bulldogs have a 12.1% chance of securing his commitment, per On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine.
"I am very interested in them," Briggs told BarkBoard.com. "They have been very successful recently and definitely interested in them."
Briggs had the opportunity to visit Fresno State on Sept. 7, where he witnessed the Bulldogs’ 46-30 victory over Sacramento State.
“It was good to talk to LJ, talk to him, talk to the whole coaching staff and coach KP, plus the interim head coach,” Briggs said. “It was just like, you know, just a very welcoming. Being there, representing the 559 as a four-star. So it was just good to even be there.”
Fresno State has yet to secure any commitments for its 2026 class, but the program is actively extending offers to promising talents. Alongside Briggs, the Bulldogs have expressed interest in quarterback Deagan Rose, wide receiver Kobie Watson, offensive tackle Keenyi Pepe, edge rusher Dabe Nwude and linebacker Travis Johnson for this cycle.