Out of Peachtree Ridge, Barney is noted as measuring 6-1, 170 pounds. On the 247Sports Composite, Barney is rated 4-stars, the No. 4 cornerback, No. 9 player in the state of Georgia and No. 44 prospect overall in the Class of 2026.

Fans may get a preview of what he offers to UA by checking his highlights in the clip below:

Out of Peachtree Ridge, Barney is described as measuring 6-1, 170 pounds. On the 247Sports Composite, Barney is rated 4-stars, the No. 4 cornerback, No. 9 player in the state of Georgia and No. 44 prospect overall in the Class of 2026.

Fans may get a sample of what he brings to UA by viewing his highlights in the clip below:

An early, but notable commitment

Barney is definitely a ways away from suiting up in red and white for the Tide. The 2026 class has two more seasons of high school football ahead.

Fans may be wary of the recruitment rating of a young talent, but Barney’s offer list demonstrates that it’s not only media types thrilled by his play. Florida State, Georgia, LSU, Michigan and Ohio State are among the clubs who have reportedly showed interest in Barney.

Barney gives Alabama two early pledges for 2026. Jackson (Alabama) High School standout Jamarrion Gordon got things started. Listed at 5-11, 185 pounds, Gordon is ranked 4-stars, the No. 10 recruit in the state of Alabama, No. 17 safety and the No. 186 prospect in the class on the Composite.

With the way college football recruiting works, one might assume that the Class of 2026 will be the first full cycle for the DeBoer staff.

The majority of the 2024 class had already taken part in the Early Signing Period when DeBoer was appointed. Many of Alabama’s recruiting opponents were already deep into the process of identifying their 2025 targets and making early offers to create interest and communication while DeBoer was assembling his first staff.

Barney and Gordon look like a strong start to 2026.