Elbert Hill IV, a highly recruited cornerback from Ohio, had already received more than 30 offers heading into the summer before his junior year. As a top-25 nationally ranked player in the 2026 class, Hill was already a sought-after prospect. However, there was one school that still hadn’t extended an offer: Alabama. Despite having no prior connection to the university, Hill considered Alabama a prestigious program and wanted to earn their attention.
To get the Crimson Tide’s offer, Hill attended a camp, showcasing his skills. His efforts paid off as Alabama extended an offer, and Hill quickly became one of the top targets for the team’s 2026 recruiting class. Alabama coaches, including defensive backs coach Maurice Linguist, were impressed with Hill’s abilities, with Linguist noting that Hill was “an Alabama guy” and an ideal fit for the SEC.
Hill describes himself as “different,” highlighting his ability to make plays even when the ball isn’t thrown in his direction. Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 175 pounds, Hill has been praised for his work ethic and love for the game, both of which set him apart from other players his age. He had already accumulated offers from major programs like Ohio State, Michigan, Notre Dame, and Penn State before his sophomore season.
Alabama began recruiting Hill during the spring before his junior year, which led to the development of a strong relationship with coaches Linguist, Kalen DeBoer, and general manager Courtney Morgan. Hill was impressed by the genuine conversations he had with the staff, who emphasized their belief in his potential to make an impact early at Alabama. Hill was invited to visit Tuscaloosa during a home game against Georgia, where he and his family made the drive after a high school game.
Hill’s recruitment is now down to several top schools, including Alabama, Oregon, Ohio State, USC, Penn State, and Michigan. However, Alabama remains a strong contender, with coaches expressing their desire for Hill to join the program. Hill’s father noted that the Alabama staff’s approach was genuine and straightforward, focusing more on how Hill could contribute to the team rather than using a typical recruiting pitch. Hill himself considers Alabama very high on his list, though he plans to finalize his decision by June.