AJ Gates Jr. gives Alabama State a compact, versatile change-of-pace threat
AJ Gates Jr. is a short, explosive Alabama State running back who has already shown he can create value as both a runner and receiver: in the 2024 season, he logged 46 carries for 234 rushing yards and added 9 catches for 103 receiving yards, with a long reception of 67 yards[1][4]. His best trait is versatility—he can threaten the edge, catch the ball cleanly, and make defenses pay for one missed tackle. At 5'7" and 162-173 pounds, he profiles as a quick, low-center-of-gravity playmaker rather than a volume bruiser, which makes him a useful fit for space-based offenses[1][2].
