Tayden Kaawa, Elite 4-Star QB from Hawai‘i, Commits to Alabama Crimson Tide, Bringing Dual-Threat Firepower to the SEC

officially committed to the University of Alabama, making waves as one of the few signal-callers from Hawai‘i to join the storied SEC powerhouse. At 6-foot-5 and 235 pounds, Kaawa brings a tantalizing blend of size, skill, and athleticism to Tuscaloosa, where expectations are always championship or bust.

Kaawa’s journey is a story of distance, discipline, and dominance. Originally from the islands of Hawai‘i, he’s since relocated to Utah, where he stars at Orem High School. There, during a breakout junior campaign, Kaawa completed 187 of 294 passes — a 64% completion rate — for 2,890 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just nine interceptions. He also rushed for 318 yards and four more scores on 59 carries, demonstrating both mobility and poise under pressure.

What separates Kaawa from many of his peers is his dual-sport pedigree. A standout baseball player as well, Kaawa’s fluid footwork, hand-eye coordination, and fast-twitch athleticism have translated well to the football field. His baseball background enhances his ability to make throws on the run, adjust his arm angles, and stay composed in high-leverage moments. It’s not just about raw stats with Kaawa — it’s the way he manipulates coverages, makes anticipatory throws, and extends plays without sacrificing efficiency.

Kaawa’s commitment to Alabama comes at a time when the Crimson Tide are reloading under head coach Kalen DeBoer, who is tasked with continuing the program’s legendary success following the retirement of Nick Saban. For DeBoer and his staff, landing a top-tier quarterback like Kaawa signals both national reach and future stability at the most important position in college football.

“We’re not just looking for arm talent — we’re looking for leadership, competitiveness, and the ability to process at a high level,” a source close to the Alabama coaching staff shared. “Tayden checks every single box. He’s the kind of quarterback who can elevate a program, and he wanted the challenge of doing it in the SEC.”

Alabama’s quarterback room is already stacked with talent, but Kaawa isn’t backing down from competition. Instead, he’s embracing it. “Iron sharpens iron,” he said in a recent interview. “If you want to be the best, you have to go where the best are — and that’s Alabama. I’m ready to work.”

Kaawa’s decision marks a historic moment for Hawai‘i football fans. While the state has produced elite quarterbacks before — including Heisman winner Marcus Mariota and national champion Tua Tagovailoa — few have chosen to go the Alabama route. Tagovailoa’s own success with the Tide laid the groundwork, and Kaawa is looking to follow in those footsteps while forging his own legacy.

“Representing Hawai‘i on the national stage means everything to me,” Kaawa said. “The people back home, the culture, the pride — I carry that with me every time I step on the field. Tua paved the way, and I’m honored to continue that legacy.”

The Tide’s coaching staff is already envisioning how Kaawa can be molded into their next elite signal-caller. He has the physical traits of a pro-style quarterback but the mobility and toughness to excel in spread systems. His frame is already college-ready, and his mechanics — from footwork to release — are advanced for his age. At camps and showcases, Kaawa has drawn rave reviews for his leadership, command of the huddle, and accuracy on deep balls.

“He’s got that ‘it’ factor,” said one national recruiting analyst. “You watch his film, and it’s clear he can make every throw. But when you see him live, the energy changes when he steps on the field. He’s a natural leader, and he plays with controlled aggression.”

Kaawa chose Alabama over offers from several national programs, including Oregon, Utah, UCLA, and Florida State. While each school offered compelling reasons to commit, the Tide’s history of developing quarterbacks for the NFL — and the competitive rigor of the SEC — proved too enticing to pass up.

“I prayed about it, talked with my family, and ultimately felt like Alabama was where I was meant to be,” Kaawa explained. “It’s a blessing to be in this position. Now the real work begins.”

Beyond his physical gifts and football IQ, Kaawa is also known for his humility, work ethic, and cultural pride. Coaches praise his maturity, his ability to absorb coaching, and his willingness to put in the extra hours behind the scenes. His presence has been transformative at Orem High, where teammates gravitate toward him not just because of his talent, but because of the respect he commands.

That kind of presence will be invaluable in Tuscaloosa, where the pressures are immense, but the rewards can be legendary.

“This is a kid who’s wired differently,” said Orem head coach Jeremy Hill. “Tayden’s a rare mix of confidence and humility. He studies the game like a veteran, puts the team first, and raises the standard for everyone around him. Alabama’s getting a great one — not just a player, but a person.”

For Alabama fans, Kaawa’s commitment is yet another reason to be excited about the future. After a generational run under Nick Saban, the new era under DeBoer appears to be in good hands — especially with talents like Kaawa leading the charge.

Back in Hawai‘i, the reaction has been one of pride and celebration. Kaawa’s rise is a testament to what’s possible when talent meets discipline and opportunity. His journey from island fields to SEC stadiums is far from complete, but the trajectory is clear: this is a quarterback built for the big stage.

And now, with his decision made, the countdown begins.

Tayden Kaawa is headed to Alabama. The Crimson Tide have landed their next great quarterback prospect. And Hawai‘i — once again — has gifted the college football world with a star.