Alabama Loses Four-Star Safety to Penn State
Elliot Washington, a four-star safety prospect from Venice, FL who committed to Alabama in January, reopened his recruitment this week and, per an announcement on Twitter, will suit up for the Penn State Nittany Lions next season.
Washington's post read, "I would like to thank the University of Alabama, coach Saban, coach [Robert Gillespie] and coach [Travaris Robinson] for your time and effort during my recruitment," the safety continued, "After exploring all of my options through my recruitment process, I will be decommitting from the University of Alabama."
"After further conversation with my family I will be committing to The Pennsylvania State University. 1000% committed."
Washington is currently ranked as the 25th overall prospect in the state of Florida and the sixth ranked safety in the nation, per 247Sports.
Last season the 5-foot-11, 195 lb. defender recorded 54 tackles, two TFL's and four interceptions for Venice High School who finished the season 14-1 and won the state title.
Andrew Ivins of 247Sports calls Washington, "A versatile defensive back with an elite burst that has been getting varsity snaps since he was in eighth grade (...) Has spent much of prep career working on the outside, but figures to settle in as a slot corner or box safety at the next level given physical nature and lack of length."
While Washington does not necessarily fit the mold of a modern defensive back, his versatility and athleticism make him someone who could be certainly a disruptor in many aspects of the game.
Alabama still holds 10 commitments in the 2023 class, but this is a big loss for the Tide.