Javari Barnett, Three-Star Tampa Running Back, Flips Commitment from Illinois to Alabama, Becomes Latest Addition to Tide’s 2025 Class

The Alabama Crimson Tide continue to flex their recruiting muscle under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, landing yet another intriguing prospect for the 2025 class. Javari Barnett, a dynamic three-star running back out of Tampa, Florida, has officially announced that he is flipping his commitment from Illinois to Alabama.

The decision, made public via Barnett’s social media channels on Sunday afternoon, represents yet another sign of Alabama’s growing momentum on the recruiting trail as they reshape their roster in the post-Nick Saban era. For Barnett, the move signifies an opportunity to test his talents on the biggest stage in college football while joining a program synonymous with championships and elite player development.

“After careful consideration with my family and coaches, I’ve decided to decommit from the University of Illinois and commit to the University of Alabama,” Barnett wrote. “I have nothing but respect for the Illini program, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete at the highest level and represent the Crimson Tide.”

From Illinois to the SEC: A Major Shift

Barnett originally committed to Illinois in March, citing a strong relationship with head coach Bret Bielema and the Illini’s vision for his development. However, in recent weeks, Alabama made a strong push for the versatile 5-foot-11, 195-pound back, ultimately swaying his decision.

Sources close to Barnett’s recruitment indicated that Alabama running backs coach Robert Gillespie played a crucial role in flipping the commitment. Gillespie, known for his ability to identify and develop under-the-radar running backs, has been instrumental in reshaping the Tide’s backfield, and Barnett now becomes a central piece of that plan.

“Coach Gillespie made it clear that I’m a priority for them, and they see me fitting in with their offense right away,” Barnett told On3 Sports shortly after making his announcement. “I grew up watching Alabama. To have this opportunity to put on that jersey and compete in the SEC—it’s a dream come true.”

A Rising Prospect with Big Upside

While Barnett carries a three-star rating, his stock has been on the rise following a breakout junior season at Tampa Bay Tech. In 2024, Barnett rushed for 1,324 yards and 18 touchdowns, showcasing both speed and toughness between the tackles. His ability to contribute as both a runner and pass-catcher out of the backfield caught the attention of several Power Five programs down the stretch.

Recruiting analysts note that Barnett brings versatility to Alabama’s offense—a key trait as the Tide continue to modernize under DeBoer’s leadership. His acceleration through the hole, combined with quick-cutting ability in open space, gives him potential to contribute early in his college career.

“Javari is one of those players who plays bigger than his rating,” 247Sports analyst Andrew Ivins said. “He’s tough, elusive, and has a great football IQ. Alabama’s backfield is loaded, but with his skill set, he’ll have every opportunity to carve out a role.”

Alabama Reloads After Key Departures

Barnett’s commitment comes at a critical time for the Crimson Tide, who are reloading their running back room following the departures of several veterans to the NFL. Though Alabama maintains depth with players like Justice Haynes and Richard Young, adding Barnett provides valuable insurance and competition in the backfield.

DeBoer’s offensive system, which emphasizes balance and versatility, is expected to utilize multiple backs, giving Barnett a realistic chance to see the field as a freshman if he impresses in fall camp.

“Coach DeBoer’s offense fits my style perfectly,” Barnett said. “They use their backs in different ways, not just running the ball, but catching passes, lining up wide, and being involved in all aspects of the game. I feel like I can grow into that role and contribute early.”

Tide’s 2025 Recruiting Class Continues to Climb

With Barnett now on board, Alabama’s 2025 recruiting class continues to gain traction nationally. The Crimson Tide have already secured commitments from several blue-chip prospects, and Barnett becomes the latest addition to a group that is rapidly climbing the rankings.

Recruiting insiders note that Barnett’s flip is part of a larger trend of prospects taking a renewed look at Alabama following DeBoer’s first full offseason at the helm. After initially facing questions about how the program would transition post-Saban, the Tide appear to be silencing doubters on the recruiting trail.

“People wanted to question whether Alabama could still recruit elite talent after Coach Saban retired,” Barnett added. “But when you walk around that facility, see the championships, talk to the coaches—nothing’s changed. It’s still Alabama. It’s still the standard.”

Respect for Illinois

Despite his change of heart, Barnett was quick to express gratitude to Illinois and head coach Bret Bielema for their recruitment and belief in him. The Illini staff had identified Barnett early, and his initial commitment in March was seen as a major win for the Big Ten program.

“Illinois was great to me,” Barnett emphasized. “Coach Bielema, Coach Patterson—they believed in me from the start, and I’ll always respect them for that. But sometimes, opportunities come along that you can’t pass up, and for me, that was Alabama.”

What’s Next for Barnett?

With his commitment now locked in, Barnett plans to focus entirely on his senior season at Tampa Bay Tech, where he hopes to lead his team to a state championship. He also intends to graduate early and enroll at Alabama in January, allowing him to participate in spring practices and acclimate to college life ahead of schedule.

“That’s the plan—get on campus early, learn the playbook, get stronger, and compete,” Barnett explained. “I’m not coming in expecting anything to be handed to me, but I’m coming to work. I want to earn my spot and help Alabama win more titles.”

Javari Barnett’s decision to flip from Illinois to Alabama underscores the ongoing allure of the Crimson Tide, even amid a period of transition. His blend of versatility, production, and determination makes him a valuable addition to Alabama’s 2025 class, and his commitment serves as yet another reminder that the standard in Tuscaloosa remains unchanged.

For Barnett, the path ahead is filled with challenges and opportunity—a chance to go from an overlooked three-star prospect to the next in a long line of Alabama running back success stories.

“I’ve got a chip on my shoulder,” Barnett concluded. “I know I have to prove myself, but that’s what I’ve been doing my whole life. Now, I get to do it in Tuscaloosa. Roll Tide.”