Alabama had a big day Monday, picking up a pair of 2013 commitments. The Crimson Tide was first to offer tight end/outside linebacker O.J. Howard (Autauga, Ala./Autauga Academy). He committed on the spot.Nick Saban and his staff also reeled in outside linebacker
Reuben Foster (LaGrange, Ga./Troup County), one of the elite as his position. Foster had been to Georgia's "Dawg Night" camp on Friday and said he had UGA and Alabama even, but he obviously changed his mind over the weekend.Howard committed as soon as he was offered."I camped there for two days this week and last month," Howard said. "In June I was playing outside linebacker. This week I was playing tight end. Coach [Nick] Saban was impressed with my route running and catching ability."Howard, 6-foot-5 and 217 pounds, grew up a huge Auburn fan but slowly the tide turned for Alabama and Howard. He visited Tuscaloosa and Alabama so much he wanted it to be his college home."That was big for me and the main reason I committed to Alabama," Howard said. "I just feel like I am at home every time. The coaches are great and I just knew it was the right place for me. I have been up there a ton and it's not far from my home. It's about an hour. I have been on campus so much it just feels right. You know, I grew up loving Auburn but I only visited them once and that was Saturday."For his high school team Howard plays quarterback, wide receiver, running back and outside linebacker. He believes he will be a tight end for the Crimson Tide."My favorite position is receiver but I only run a 4.6 [40]," Howard said. "I know I will likely be a tight end for Alabama. I am more of a hybrid tight end but I could see myself getting to 240 pounds or so if I continue to do the things I need to do and work real hard. I have a big frame and I think I fit their scheme offensively real well. I love that Alabama is not afraid to go to their tight ends. I can catch the ball and I trust my skills. I can be a threat for them."If things don't work out for Howard on the offensive side of the ball, he knows there's a place for him defensively with the Crimson Tide."Sure," Howard said. "I am a downhill guy that reads the play very well. I attack out there on defense."It's Howard's first offer and his decision is done."It feels great," Howard said. "Now I just have to keep working real hard."