Alabama offers Maplesville freshman at linebacker: “It has been my dream school since little league”

In the heart of rural Alabama, where Friday night lights burn bright and football is more than just a pastime, Maplesville High School freshman linebacker Marcus “MJ” Lawson received the kind of news that turns dreams into destiny. The University of Alabama—one of the most prestigious programs in all of college football—extended an official scholarship offer to the 15-year-old standout, signaling a monumental moment for both the young athlete and the small-town program that helped shape him.

The offer, delivered personally by Alabama linebackers coach Robert Bala during a campus visit in Tuscaloosa, marks Lawson as one of the youngest prospects in the 2028 recruiting cycle to land an offer from the Crimson Tide. While it’s not uncommon for elite sophomores and juniors to receive early interest, for a freshman to receive an offer from Alabama speaks volumes about the talent, maturity, and ceiling Lawson possesses.

“It has been my dream school since little league,” Lawson said, moments after receiving the offer. “I grew up watching Alabama with my family every Saturday. To wear that jersey one day—it’s what I’ve always wanted. Getting that offer, it felt surreal. I couldn’t stop smiling.”

For Lawson, football isn’t just a sport—it’s been a family legacy. His father, Marcus Sr., played linebacker at Alabama State in the early 2000s, and his older brother currently plays at a small Division II school. From the moment MJ first picked up a football, his goal was clear: suit up for the Alabama Crimson Tide.

“Growing up in Alabama, it’s hard not to dream about playing for Coach Saban,” Lawson said. “Even though he’s retired now, his name still carries weight. It’s about the culture, the expectations, the championships. That’s what I want to be part of.”

Lawson’s recruitment has accelerated quickly over the past year. After earning a starting varsity role as an eighth grader for Maplesville—an Alabama Class 1A football powerhouse—he recorded 114 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks in his first season. His explosiveness, sideline-to-sideline range, and instinctive feel for the game made him a staple of the Red Devils’ defense, drawing attention from several Power Five programs.

But it wasn’t until he participated in Alabama’s recent summer camp that the Tide staff took full notice. Lawson turned heads during linebacker drills, showcasing crisp footwork, fluid hips, and the type of aggression rarely seen from a player so young. Multiple coaches, including new head coach Kalen DeBoer and defensive coordinator Kane Wommack, took time to watch Lawson closely.

“He’s got a rare combination of explosiveness and instincts for someone his age,” said Coach Bala. “We’ve had our eye on him for a while, and he showed us exactly why. His motor doesn’t stop. His football IQ is way beyond his years. And most importantly, he’s a high-character kid.”

Maplesville High School, located in Chilton County, is no stranger to football success. The Red Devils have produced multiple state championships in recent decades and boast a tradition of tough, disciplined football. However, an offer from Alabama—especially to a freshman—is almost unheard of, even in this football-rich part of the state.

Maplesville head coach Brad Abbott couldn’t hide his excitement.

“This is something special, no doubt about it,” Abbott said. “MJ is one of the hardest-working kids I’ve ever coached. He’s in the weight room at 6:30 AM, leading by example, asking questions, watching film like a senior. He deserves every bit of this recognition.”

Abbott emphasized that while the spotlight is now on Lawson, the young linebacker remains grounded.

“He’s humble. He knows this is just the beginning. That’s what makes him different,” Abbott said. “He’s not satisfied. He wants to keep getting better.”

In addition to Alabama, Lawson has already received interest from Auburn, Georgia, LSU, and Florida State, with more programs expected to follow as word of his performance spreads. His recruiting process is in its infancy, but the early attention puts him firmly in the conversation as one of the top prospects in the Class of 2028—even though most national services have yet to rank freshmen.

Recruiting insiders say Lawson fits the mold of the modern hybrid linebacker—equally comfortable stopping the run, covering tight ends or slot receivers, and blitzing off the edge. His versatility could allow him to project as an inside or outside linebacker at the next level.

While NIL opportunities and transfer flexibility are already shaping recruiting conversations, Lawson’s family has made it clear they’re focused on finding the right fit—both athletically and academically.

“We’re honored by Alabama’s offer,” said Marcus Sr. “But this is a marathon, not a sprint. We’re going to make sure MJ grows into the man he’s supposed to become first. The right program will develop him on and off the field.”

For Alabama, extending an offer to a freshman is rare, but not without precedent. The Crimson Tide have occasionally identified and secured long-term commitments from generational talents early—players like Tony Mitchell, Julio Jones, and Dylan Moses received early offers and went on to star in Tuscaloosa.

With Nick Saban now retired and new head coach Kalen DeBoer setting his vision, Alabama is emphasizing youth scouting, relationship building, and development more than ever. Offering Lawson early is both a nod to his potential and a message to in-state recruits: Alabama still protects its backyard.

“We want to keep the best talent home,” Coach Wommack said. “Marcus is the kind of player you build a defense around. He’s got the tools, the toughness, and the temperament.”

DeBoer, who inherited towering expectations following Saban’s retirement, has made in-state recruiting a top priority. Landing a commitment from a player like Lawson in the coming years would be a signature win, both for perception and program continuity.

Off the field, Lawson is described as a respectful, soft-spoken student with a 3.8 GPA and a passion for history. He’s active in his church, participates in community clean-up efforts, and mentors younger students at Maplesville Elementary.

“I just want to set an example,” Lawson said. “For the kids coming up behind me, I want them to know that you don’t have to come from a big school or a big city to chase your dreams. If you put in the work, people will notice.”

Lawson’s story is quickly becoming a source of pride not just for his school, but for the entire Maplesville community. A town of just over 700 residents, Maplesville is rallying around its rising star.

“He’s the talk of the town right now,” said Coach Abbott with a grin. “But he handles it well. He knows where he came from, and he knows where he’s trying to go.”

Despite the fanfare surrounding the offer, Lawson and his family say there are no immediate plans to make a commitment. The young linebacker plans to visit several campuses over the next two years, attend combines, and continue to develop physically and mentally.

Lawson is currently listed at 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, but his frame suggests he could eventually reach 225–230 pounds without sacrificing speed.

“I’m just taking it day by day,” he said. “I want to keep learning, keep training, keep growing. I’m not trying to rush anything.”

He will enter his sophomore year this fall as the centerpiece of Maplesville’s defense, with eyes from across the Southeast—and beyond—watching.

“We’re gonna let the process play out,” said Marcus Sr. “But one thing’s for sure—Alabama is, and always has been, his dream.”

As the interview wrapped up, Lawson had a few words for the younger kids in his hometown who might be dreaming of the same spotlight.

“Don’t wait for someone to believe in you—believe in yourself first. I started grinding way before anyone was watching. I used to say to myself, ‘One day, I’m going to earn that offer.’ And today, it happened.”

Indeed, from little league dreams to standing inside Bryant-Denny Stadium with a Crimson Tide offer in hand, Marcus “MJ” Lawson is proof that big dreams can rise from small towns—especially when backed by work ethic, humility, and heart. And for Alabama fans, the name Lawson may just be one they’ll be cheering for in the not-so-distant future.