2021 college football recruiting class rankings: Alabama No. 1 entering national signing day

Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide are tied for the most ESPN 300 commits (17) entering the early signing period. Wesley Hitt/Getty Images

Despite the many challenges college football teams have faced amid the COVID-19 pandemic, programs and prospects have still worked hard to find the right fit heading into the beginning of the early signing period, which starts Wednesday. While a majority of the class is committed and likely to sign, changes within the class rankings are still coming, with more expected over the course of the week.

The race at the top is one to watch, with the margin between No. 1 Alabama and No. 2 Ohio State razor thin after the Buckeyes added a second ESPN 300 top-5 WR to their class in Emeka Egbuka.

Clemson continues to fight to stay in the mix for a potential second straight top-ranked class after flipping No. 15 CB Nathaniel Wiggins from LSU. The addition of the flexible, quick-footed corner with good length was enough to help the ACC Tigers leap those of the SEC and land at No. 4.

Texas A&M pushed closer to securing another top-10 class, as the Aggies jumped to No. 12 by picking up No. 5 DE Shemar Turner, a powerful and explosive defender who could quickly work his way into the Aggies' defensive rotation.

Lane Kiffin has Ole Miss heating up at the right time, as the Rebels rocketed up the rankings and into the top 20. They landed multiple commitments, including some key ones from inside the state, led by QB Luke Altmyer. The onetime Florida State commit is a true dual threat, with good speed as a runner as well as a fluid release and good accuracy as a passer.