Nation’s No. 1 TE Mark Bowman Commits to Alabama over Georgia Bulldogs, Notre Dame and Ohio State Buckeyes in Highly Contested Decision.⬇️⬇️⬇️
Nation’s No. 1 TE Mark Bowman Commits to Alabama over Georgia, Notre Dame, and Ohio State in Highly Contested Decision
By [Your Name]
May 21, 2025
In what has become one of the most anticipated recruiting announcements of the 2025 cycle, 5-star tight end Mark Bowman — the consensus No. 1 player at his position — officially committed to the University of Alabama on Tuesday afternoon, choosing the Crimson Tide over elite programs including Georgia, Notre Dame, and Ohio State.
The 6-foot-6, 240-pound standout from Buford High School in Georgia made his announcement via a nationally televised segment on ESPN, flanked by family, coaches, and teammates. His decision puts a cap on one of the most intense recruiting battles in recent memory and gives Alabama another marquee weapon in what is shaping up to be the top-ranked 2025 recruiting class.
“This decision has been a long time coming,” Bowman said during the broadcast. “I want to thank all the schools that recruited me and showed me love throughout this process. But after prayer, long talks with my family, and thinking about where I can grow the most as a student-athlete and a man — I’ll be committing to the University of Alabama.”
A Massive Win for the Crimson Tide
With his commitment, Bowman becomes the fourth 5-star to pledge to Alabama in the 2025 class and arguably its most high-profile addition so far. Regarded not only as the top tight end in the country but also as a top-10 overall player in multiple national rankings, Bowman’s versatility and size make him one of the most unique offensive prospects in recent memory.
He’s widely considered a “matchup nightmare” — too fast for linebackers and too strong for defensive backs. His ability to line up in multiple formations, whether attached to the line, split out wide, or in the slot, adds dynamic flexibility to any offensive scheme.
“Mark Bowman is the most complete tight end we’ve evaluated in the past decade,” said Charles Power, director of scouting at On3. “He’s an elite route-runner, a natural pass catcher, and he has the frame and toughness to block like an offensive lineman. He’s going to be a problem from day one.”
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb have been quietly building a tight end-friendly system in Tuscaloosa since taking over the program. The addition of Bowman suggests that plan is gaining traction among elite recruits.
The Recruiting Battle
The race for Bowman’s commitment had long been seen as a four-team battle among Alabama, Georgia, Notre Dame, and Ohio State — each offering a rich tradition of developing tight ends and national exposure.
Notre Dame was considered the early leader in Bowman’s recruitment, thanks to a strong push from tight ends coach Gerad Parker and head coach Marcus Freeman. Bowman visited South Bend multiple times in 2023 and even named the Irish his top school in early 2024.
Ohio State surged into the picture later in the process after a standout official visit in March 2025. The Buckeyes emphasized the opportunity to play in a dynamic, high-scoring offense under Ryan Day and made Bowman a priority target down the stretch.
Georgia, the in-state school, remained a strong contender throughout and was seen as the sentimental favorite. The Bulldogs made Bowman a household name in recruiting circles from the start of his high school career, and Kirby Smart’s staff kept the pressure on until the very end.
But it was Alabama that closed the strongest.
Multiple sources close to Bowman’s recruitment cite his strong connection with DeBoer and Grubb, the Tide’s clear development track record, and the opportunity to play early in a system tailored to his skill set as major factors in his decision.
“He felt like Alabama gave him the best of all worlds — elite football, strong academics, and a clear plan for how he’d be used from day one,” one recruiting source told 247Sports. “And he bought into the new energy around that program.”
Bowman’s Impact on Alabama’s 2025 Class
With Bowman on board, Alabama’s 2025 recruiting class is surging ahead as one of the best in the nation. His commitment vaults the Tide back into the No. 1 spot in the 247Sports Composite Team Rankings, surpassing Georgia and Oregon.
Bowman joins an already-loaded offensive group that includes 5-star quarterback Mason Durant, 4-star wide receiver Jaylen Ricks, and 4-star offensive lineman Zaire Coleman. The thought of Bowman working the middle of the field while Durant operates from the pocket has Alabama fans and coaches alike buzzing about the offensive firepower being assembled.
Recruiting analysts say Bowman’s decision could also help Alabama land more top talent, especially among wide receivers and offensive linemen who want to play in a system featuring elite pass-catchers and balanced schemes.
“This is a ripple effect type of commitment,” said ESPN’s Tom Luginbill. “Players want to play with other great players. Bowman’s presence gives Alabama an even stronger pitch heading into the summer.”
What Alabama Is Getting in Mark Bowman
Bowman’s numbers as a junior were eye-popping. He caught 61 passes for 1,012 yards and 13 touchdowns, often facing double teams and aggressive coverage. Despite that, he remained a dominant force in the passing game and an integral part of Buford’s running attack as a blocker.
His athleticism is just as impressive as his stats. A multi-sport athlete, Bowman plays basketball and runs track, showcasing agility and foot speed that set him apart from most tight ends. His vertical jump was recently measured at 36 inches, and he runs a verified 4.62-second 40-yard dash.
But beyond the athletic traits, coaches and scouts rave about his football IQ, work ethic, and leadership qualities.
“He’s the full package,” Buford head coach Bryant Appling said. “He’s coachable, driven, and hungry to be great. Alabama’s getting not just a star player — they’re getting a guy who’s going to elevate the locker room.”
Reactions Around the Country
News of Bowman’s commitment spread quickly Tuesday afternoon, lighting up social media with reactions from fans, analysts, and former players. Alabama tight ends coach Joe Cox simply tweeted, “Let’s work,” while quarterback commit Mason Durant posted, “TOUCHDOWN BAMA. Let’s get to work bro.”
Meanwhile, Georgia and Notre Dame fans expressed disappointment, with many noting how close their programs came to landing the star. In an era of high-profile recruiting battles and NIL influence, the margins are razor thin, and Bowman’s decision underscores the ongoing arms race for elite talent.
What’s Next for Bowman
Bowman is expected to graduate early and enroll at Alabama in January 2026. He has said he plans to continue working on his strength and technique as a blocker and looks forward to learning from the Tide’s current tight end room, which includes rising juniors and experienced veterans.
“I know I’ve got a lot to learn,” Bowman said Tuesday. “But I’m ready to put in the work. I want to be part of something special, and I believe Alabama gives me the best chance to do that.”
As the 2025 recruiting cycle heats up heading into the summer and fall, Bowman’s commitment is a major statement from Alabama — and a reminder that even in the post-Saban era, the Tide remains a dominant force in college football.
