Haywood's Watkins picks Tide over Vols

The 6-foot-5, 225-pound Watkins also had scholarship offers from Tennessee, Texas Tech, Mississippi State, Clemson, Ole Miss and Memphis.

A week ago, Watkins attended Alabama's summer camp.

"I went to (Alabama's) camp last weekend and they showed me around the campus, and I just loved their facilities and tradition," Watkins told The Jackson Sun. "I came back and talked to my family and we came to the decision that I should go to Alabama."

Watkins, who won't turn 17 until July, added the Crimson Tide beat out the Vols for two main reasons.

"Alabama showed more interest in me from the start, plus it's closer to my family than Tennessee," he told the newspaper.

A three-star prospect by Scout.com, Watkins established himself as one of West Tennessee's top two-way players last season. Watkins recorded 70 tackles and 16 sacks as a junior.

According to Watkins, his commitment will allow him to focus on his upcoming senior season.

"It's one less distraction," Watkins said.

According to Haywood coach Bart Stowe, Watkins will benefit from his early commitment.

"He doesn't have to worry about making a decision during the season. He can focus on enjoying his senior year," Stowe told The Jackson Sun. "And the University of Alabama is a pretty good place to go. For Alex to be able to go down there and play is unreal."

With his combination of size, speed and athleticism, Watkins is considered one of the state's top prospects. His speed is particularly intriguing. While at the Alabama camp, Watkins reportedly ran the 40-yard dash in 4.75 seconds.