The college football landscape is in constant flux, particularly with the advent of the transfer portal. This piece examines the significant shifts within the Alabama Crimson Tide football roster, dissecting the comings and goings across key positions. It offers a clear picture of the athletes departing for the NFL Draft or other institutions, those steadfastly remaining, and the fresh talent joining the ranks, thereby shaping the team's prospective outlook.
In the quarterback department, a notable departure is Ty Simpson, who has declared for the NFL Draft. Meanwhile, Austin Mack and Keelon Russell are set to return, providing continuity. The team has not yet acquired any new quarterbacks via the transfer portal, with Jett Thomalla and Tayden Kaawa joining as freshmen, rounding out a seemingly complete four-player unit for the position.
The running back group is experiencing a considerable turnover. Jam Miller and Dre Washington are exiting due to eligibility issues and the NFL Draft, respectively, while Richard Young has entered the transfer portal. Daniel Hill, Kevin Riley, and A.K. Dear are the returning stalwarts. Interestingly, Hollywood Smothers, initially committed to Alabama, has now explored other options, highlighting the fluid nature of commitments in the portal era. Ezavier Crowell and Trae'Shawn Brown are the incoming freshmen at this position.
Wide receiver sees significant movement, with Germie Bernard pursuing the NFL Draft, and Isaiah Horton, Jalen Mbakwe, Bubba Hampton, Cole Adams, and Jalen Hale all entering the transfer portal, with some already finding new homes. Ryan Williams and Lotzeir Brooks are expected to return as starters, supported by backups Derek Meadows and Rico Scott. The team is actively seeking new talent, with Cam Coleman and Tony Diaz being prominent targets.
For the tight ends, Josh Cuevas and Brody Dalton have moved on. The returning group includes Kaleb Edwards, Danny Lewis Jr., Marshall Pritchett, Jack Sammarco, and Jay Lindsey. Josh Ford, a strong run blocker from Oklahoma State, is a significant transfer acquisition, alongside Jaxon Shuttlesworth, a preferred walk-on. Mack Sutter joins as a freshman.
The offensive line is undergoing a major overhaul, with Kadyn Proctor, Parker Brailsford, Kam Dewberry, Geno VanDeMark, and Jaeden Roberts heading to the NFL Draft or concluding eligibility. Wilkin Formby, Roq Montgomery, Olaus Alinen, Joseph Ionata, and Micah DeBose have all entered the transfer portal. Michael Carroll is the sole returning starter, joined by Will Sanders, Jackson Lloyd, Casey Poe, and Mal Waldrep. Kaden Strayhorn and Tyrell Miller are new additions, with high-profile targets like Ty Heywood and DJ Chester also on the radar. Bryson Cooley, Bear Fretwell, Jared Doughty, and Chris Booker complete the freshman class.
Defensive line sees the departures of LT Overton and Tim Keenan to the NFL Draft, while James Smith, Keon Keeley, and Kelby Collins have entered the transfer portal. Edric Hill, Jeremiah Beaman, Jordan Renaud, Isaia Faga, and London Simmons are experienced returnees, with Steve MBoumoua and Fatutoa Henry as reserves. The potential return of Jah-Marien Latham on a medical redshirt remains uncertain. Devan Thompkins from USC is a crucial portal acquisition, and Javeon Campbell from Kentucky is another target. Freshmen Jamarion Matthews, Corey Howard, and Nolan Wilson will bolster the line.
At linebacker, Justin Jefferson, Deontae Lawson, and Nikai Hill-Green are moving on, while Qua Russaw and Noah Carter have entered the transfer portal. Yhonzae Pierre and Justin Hill lead the Wolf/Edge players, with QB Reese, Cayden Jones, Duke Johnson, Luke Metz, and Abduall Sandesr returning as inside backers. Caleb Woodson from Virginia Tech is a key transfer. Xavier Griffin, Kamhariyan Johnson, Malique Franklin, and Zay Hall are the incoming freshmen.
In the secondary, Domani Jackson, Cam Calhoun, and DaShawn Jones are departing the cornerback position. Zabien Brown, Dijon Lee, and Red Morgan are expected to start, with Chuck McDonald providing depth. Carmelo O’Neal from Mercer and JUCO transfer Nick Sherman are new additions. Jorden Edonds and Zyan Gibson are freshmen. The safety position sees Kam Howard transfer to Boston College. Bray Hubbard and Keon Sabb are projected starters, with Zay Mincey, Ivan Taylor, and Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. returning as reserves, pending a suspension. Jireh Edwards and Rihyael Kelley are freshmen, with no current portal additions.
Special teams also see changes, with punter Blake Doud, kicker Peter Notaro, and long snapper David Bird departing. Punter Alex Asparuhov and kicker Conor Talty are returning. Ethan Strangle from Syracuse and FCS All-American punter Adam Watford are joining as preferred walk-ons. This ongoing roster management underscores the dynamic nature of collegiate sports, with constant adjustments to maintain competitiveness.