Top 3 landing spots for four-star CB Zyan Gibson ft. Alabama

Four-star cornerback Zyan Gibson will announce his commitment on Christmas Eve. The four-star standout from Gadsden City High School in Alabama has narrowed his options to four schools: Alabama, Tennessee, Auburn and Miami.

According to the On3 Industry Rankings, Gibson is the No. 9 cornerback in the nation, No. 4 in Alabama, and No. 68 in the 2026 recruiting class. His athleticism and speed, as seen by a 10.85 personal record in the 100-meter dash, place him among the most sought-after defensive backs in the country.

Top 3 schools vying for Zyan Gibson

3. Tennessee

The Tennessee Volunteers have built a strong case for Gibson due to their impressive 10-2 record and 6-2 standing in the Southeastern Conference this season. Tennessee’s willingness to play young talent, like freshman Boo Carter, has not gone unnoticed by Gibson.

"They have true freshmen on punt returns, they're playing their young guys," Gibson told Rivals.

Assistant defensive back coach Earnest Thomas III and defensive coordinator Tim Banks have been in touch with Gibson.

"I love the environment there, the energy, the coaches, the players," Gibson told "The energy of their practices...I like their facilities, too."

Tennessee has six committed players for the 2026 class, which ranks first in the SEC and third nationally. Faizon Brandon, a five-star quarterback, is this cycle's prized recruit.

2. Auburn

As an in-state program, Auburn has a natural connection to Gibson. According to the On3 recruiting prediction machine, the Tigers have a 1.6% chance of securing the commitment.

"They have been in touch with me every other day showing me their practices, FaceTiming me and calling me, showing a lot of love," Gibson told Rivals. "They love me, they do -- and I can tell."

Gibson has also praised Auburn’s facilities, food and overall atmosphere.

Auburn has five committed players in the 2026 class, ranking No. 8 in the nation. It features edge rusher Hezekiah Harris, linebacker Shadarius Toodle, wide receiver Denairius Gray, safety Wayne Henry and linebacker JaMichael Garrett.

1. Alabama

Steve Wiltfong and Joseph Hastings predicted Alabama would land Gibson, and the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine gives the Crimson Tide a 97.1% chance of securing his commitment.

The Crimson Tide extended an offer to Gibson in March, and his multiple visits to Tuscaloosa have boosted their chances. One standout moment was Alabama’s thrilling 41-34 victory over Georgia on Sept. 28, which Gibson described as a "game-changer."

Speaking about Alabama's defense, Gibson told TDA:

“It was outstanding, and they have a lot of energy. They also was playing freshmen.”

Gibson’s last visit came during the Iron Bowl on Nov. 30, where Alabama defeated Auburn 28-14.

Alabama currently does not have a commitment in the 2026 class. The Crimson Tide lost their sole commitment in the cycle when four-star defensive lineman Vodney Cleveland backed off his pledge on Monday.