Jackson star E.J. Crowell says he is reclassifying, leaving high school after junior season
Jackson running back E.J. Crowell smiles as he breaks loose on a long touchdown run against Cherokee County in the Class 4A state championship game in Birmingham in December. Crowell, one of the nation’s top running back prospects, said Tuesday he is reclassifying and leaving high school after his junior season. (Helen Joyce/Call News)
By EDUARDO MAGAÑA
Jackson star Ezavier “E.J.” Crowell, who is rated the No. 1 running back in the nation in his class, announced on social media Tuesday that he will reclassify from the class of 2027 to the class of 2026.
Crowell, 17, a sophomore, will leave high school a year early, as did former Saraland receiver and two-time Mr. Football Ryan Williams, who is now a star at Alabama.
Crowell (5-11, 205), a four-star standout from the Depot area of Jackson, ran for 1,964 yards and 31 touchdowns on 168 carries as a sophomore to lead the Aggies to the Class 4A state title. He has rushed for 3,701 yards and 56 TDs in two years while averaging 11.1 yards per carry.
Crowell — who after reclassifying is ranked the No. 11 prospect in Alabama and the No. 15 running back nationally in the 2026 class, according to On3’s composite — has 33 college offers, including Alabama, Auburn, Texas, Michigan, Oregon, Colorado and Georgia, among others.
Crowell said his decision to reclassify was driven by multiple factors, including a desire to graduate alongside his brother, Zack, in 2026.
“Graduating with my brother is something that’s really important to me,”Crowell explained. “It’s a moment I’ve been looking forward to and this decision allows me to make that happen.”
Crowell, whose speed, power and balance are well-documented, said he isn’t reclassifying to sit on the bench.
“This decision is going to have a huge impact on my future,” he said. “There are so many schools reaching out and it’s a blessing to have that kind of interest. But my main goal is to be a freshman All-American and make an immediate impact wherever I go.”
Crowell said sheer hard work and dedication are the reasons for his success.
“I always tell myself to work hard, stay on the field more, work out at home, be disciplined and think about the game at any moment,” he said.
