Alabama Football Recruiting: Hawaii’s 6-Foot-7, 4-Star OL Malakai Lee Includes Crimson Tide in Final Four
The Alabama Crimson Tide continue to make waves on the recruiting trail, and their latest pursuit involves a massive talent from the Pacific. Malakai Lee, a 6-foot-7, 4-star offensive lineman out of Hawaii, has narrowed his list of top schools down to four, and Alabama is firmly in the mix. The towering lineman, known for his size, athleticism, and strong presence in the trenches, announced that Alabama is one of the final programs he is seriously considering as he approaches a crucial stage in his recruitment.
Lee, who plays at Saint Louis School in Honolulu—a program with a rich history of producing Division I talent—has seen his stock rise steadily over the past year. Coaches and scouts alike have praised his footwork, agility, and power, making him one of the most sought-after offensive line prospects in the 2025 class. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-7 and weighing over 290 pounds, Lee has the prototypical frame and upside to become a dominant force at the collegiate level.
In addition to Alabama, Lee’s final four includes Oregon, USC, and Washington. Each of these programs offers unique advantages, but Alabama’s long-standing tradition of excellence, particularly in developing NFL-caliber offensive linemen, gives them a compelling edge. Under the leadership of head coach Kalen DeBoer, the Crimson Tide have remained focused on reinforcing their offensive front, and Lee fits the mold of the physical, high-upside linemen they covet.
Lee’s decision to include Alabama is not surprising given the Tide’s consistent presence in his recruitment. Offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic has been a key figure in building a relationship with Lee and his family, emphasizing player development, academic support, and the opportunity to compete for championships. Alabama’s track record of sending offensive linemen to the NFL—including names like Evan Neal, Jedrick Wills, and Cam Robinson—has been a significant selling point.
In interviews, Lee has expressed admiration for Alabama’s competitive culture and winning mentality. He’s also mentioned the appeal of playing in the SEC, widely regarded as the toughest conference in college football. For a player with aspirations of reaching the NFL, the idea of testing himself against elite competition week in and week out is enticing.
The timeline for Lee’s final decision remains fluid, but he is expected to take official visits this summer before announcing his commitment in the fall. Alabama will likely host him for a visit in the coming months, offering the staff a chance to make a final impression.
- As Alabama looks to build another top-tier recruiting class, securing a commitment from a prospect like Malakai Lee would be a major win. His inclusion of the Tide in his final four speaks volumes about the program’s national reach and continued appeal to elite talent—even from as far away as Hawaii.
