Alabama claimed its 12th verbal commitment for 2009 on Tuesday, as Sparkman defensive lineman Anthony Orr announced he would sign with the Crimson Tide in February.
Orr (6-foot-4, 250 pounds) also had offers from Auburn, Tennessee, Mississippi State and Central Florida, among other schools. He joins Athens defensive end William Ming, Faith Academy (Mobile) cornerback Gerald West and Olive Branch (Miss.) safety Rod Woodson as players who have verballed to Alabama since July 22.
Orr said he committed to the Crimson Tide at about 10 a.m. on Tuesday, but the decision was hardly a difficult one.
"I've known for a while that I wanted to go there," Orr said. "I made this decision because they're headed in a good direction, trying to win a national championship. I wanted to be part of that. I wanted to go ahead and commit, so that I could concentrate on having a good (senior) season."
Orr gives the Crimson Tide four in-state defensive line commitments for 2009, joining Ming, Foley defensive tackle D.J. Fluker and Clay-Chalkville end/tackle Quinton Dial. He said he visited Alabama for its first camp this summer and fell in love with the surroundings.
"I liked the facilities and everything a lot," Orr said. "They want to use me as a pass-rushing defensive end."
ESPN Scouts Inc. evaluation
On film Orr is a physically good-looking kid who seems to look the part. He displays the ability to be a tough defender especially against the run. While not consistent he will come out of his stance and lead with his hands. Displays the ability to create and keep separation. He does a good job of being able to hold his ground especially when he stays low and can shed when the play comes his way. He has an adequate get-off. Needs to keep his pads down more consistently. Despite displaying good strength he can get tall out of his stance and be pushed off the ball. Does an adequate job of being able to come across the ball and squeeze down and will turn his shoulders. He displays solid football speed, but can seem a bit rigid in his running motion. Has solid short-area change-of-direction skills. He is a good wrap-up tackler. As a pass rusher he can get into a blocker, separate, and get some push. Will display the ability to bull rush and rip free. Will flash the ability to quickly club and swim past a blocker. Needs to improve his pass rushing arsenal and needs to be more explosive off the ball. Orr is a good prospect, but you can not help but think that he can squeeze more out of his ability on a more consistent basis. Physically displays the tools and can be a productive college defender, but also has some room to get better and elevate his game. Good prospect with upside.
