Alabama lands No. 2 2025 running back Dear

Alabama landed a commitment from 2025 running back Akylin Dear on Tuesday, according to On3's Hayes Fawcett.

Dear is the 29th overall recruit in the ESPN 300. He's also the second-ranked tailback and prospect from Mississippi.

"It is a business decision," Dear said, per Chad Simmons of On3. "Alabama has great history at running back, they know how to win, the staff shows constant love, and it is the place for me."

Dear previously committed to Ole Miss before spurning the Rebels. The 6-foot, 205-pounder noted that running backs coach Robert Gillespie's willingness to continue recruiting him was a key factor in his decision.

"(Gillespie) was really the only coach that stayed with me when I was committed," Dear said. "Some others would talk to me some and reach out a little, but coach G stayed with me. He kept texting me and calling me. He never gave up. That showed me how much he wanted me."

He said head coach Kalen DeBoer "is a winner" and will help him develop.

Dear also received offers from Mississippi State and several other schools.