Khurtiss Perry ready to make an impact with the Crimson Tide
PIKE ROAD, Ala. — For Khurtiss Perry, the last few months have been a whirlwind. Leading up to Dec. 15, the Pike Road native had been a popular name among college coaches. The defensive lineman was wanted by some of the best college programs, including Clemson, Auburn and Texas. However, Perry decided to stay in his home state after receiving 43 college offers and chose to take his talents to the University of Alabama.
Entering the 2021 season, Perry was one of the top uncommitted players in the state. He showed why in his senior season as the four-star prospect led Pike Road to an undefeated season and state title. He terrorized opposing quarterbacks by recording 23 sacks and 18 tackles for a loss.
Additionally, he recorded 30 quarterback hurries in his final high school season and earned a spot in the 2021 All- American Bowl.
Against some of the best talent in the country, Perry continued to shine. He showed why Alabama head coach Nick Saban sees him as a crucial piece which was evident in his visits.
“He likes how I use my hands and how explosive I am off the ball,” Perry said. “He thinks I can be a factor for this team.”
While Perry is an elite-pass rusher, his versatility was on display in 2021. The 18-year-old recorded two interceptions and showed that he could play any spot on the defensive line. That will be a valuable skill for the Crimson Tide as they look to avenge their loss to Georgia in the National Championship Game.
Although the college football season is still months away, Perry has a bright future. He is one of the best defensive linemen in the country and plays with an aggressive motor and has big-hit capability. In Tuscaloosa, he will have plenty of opportunities to succeed in a program that has excelled at sending players to the NFL.
When Perry begins his college career, he will be joining a freshman class with some of the top talent in the country. The Crimson Tide also landed the nation’s best pass rusher in Jeremiah Alexander. The two defenders should be an effective duo and make life difficult for opposing offenses. Regardless of how much playing time they get, Perry will be playing for a coach that already believes in him.
“He told me all the ways I can help this team, the great leader he sees me as, and the player he sees in me before I saw it myself,” Perry said.
With the 11th-best defensive linemen in the 2022 recruiting class on board, the Crimson Tide have a bright future. As they look to continue their success under Coach Saban, Perry will be a player to watch.
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