The transfer portal is officially open for business, and Alabama is expected to be an active shopper. The winter transfer window began Monday and will extend through Dec. 28. There will also be a second window in the spring from April 16-25.
Since the beginning of the season, Alabama has seen nine players declare their intent to transfer from the program. Earlier this week, the Tide received a commitment from Colorado School of Mines punter Blake Doud. The Division II transfer figures to be the first of many players Alabama adds over the offseason.
As more Alabama players make way for the portal, we should get a better feel for the Tideās needs in the transfer market. To help keep track of what next yearās roster might look like, Tide Illustrated will be updating a projected depth chart throughout the offseason.
Itās way too early to know where things stand in terms of position battles, so think of this depth chart as a rough guide to where Alabama stands at every position. The depth chart will be updated constantly with players added and removed accordingly.
Before we get started, here are a few notes on how this was put together.
While we didnāt project any unannounced transfers, players who have been tabbed as possible Day 1 or Day 2 selections in next yearās NFL draft were removed. If those players announce their return to Alabama, they will be added back to the depth chart. Additional early draft entries will be subtracted.
Players who participated in Senior Day were also removed. As is the case with projected early draft entries, Senior Day participants will be re-added should they announce their intent to return.
*** Latest update 12/17/2024
Projected early draft entries
(Players projected to be selected in first three rounds)
Jihaad Campbell, LB
Jalen Milroe, QB
Tyler Booker, OL
LT Overton, EDGE
Senior Day participants
James Burnip, P
C.J. Dippre, TE
Kneeland Hibbett, SN
Justin Jefferson, LB
Jah-Marien Latham, EDGE
Malachi Moore, S
Graham Nicholson, K
Robbie Ouzts, TE
Que Robinson, EDGE
Tim Smith, DL
Announced transfer departures
Jeheim Oatis, DT (Colorado)
Keanu Koht, EDGE (Vanderbilt)
Jahlil Hurley, CB (Kansas)
Kobe Prentice, WR (Baylor)
Caleb Odom, WR
Miles McVay, OL
Kendrick Law OL
Hunter Osborne, DL
Dylan Lonergan, QB (Boston College)
Justice Haynes, RB
DeVonta Smith, DB
Emmanuel Henderson, WR
Withdrawn transfer departures
Danny Lewis Jr., TE
Jaylen Mbakwe, DB
Announced transfer arrivals
Blake Doud, P (Colorado Mines, walk-on)
David Bird, LS (California, walk-on)
Kelby Collins, EDGE (Florida)
Position (scholarship count)
QB (4)
Departing: Jalen Milroe (draft), Dylan Lonergan (transfer)
Incoming: Keelon Russell (signee)
Ty Simpson, R-Jr.
Austin Mack, R-So.
Keelon Russell, Fr.
Outlook: Assuming that Jalen Milroe takes advantage of an upcoming weak quarterback class, Alabama will have a new starter behind center. Ty Simpson figures to be that guy, but heāll be pushed hard by Austin Mack.
With Dylan Lonergan's decision to enter the portal, Mack should slot into the backup role. That will see the former Washington transfer receive more reps during practice and should enhance his development moving forward.
Keelon Russell has the highest ceiling of anyone in this room, but the 6-foot-3, 175-pound freshman could stand to put on some weight and learn the offense before being thrown in the fire.
If Alabama drops down to three quarterbacks, it might elect to bring in a veteran for depth. However, that player wouldnāt be viewed as a contender for the starting role.
RB (5)
Departing: Justice Haynes (transfer)
Incoming: Akylin Dear (signee)
Jam Miller, Sr.
Richard Young, R-So.
Daniel Hill, R-Fr.
Akylin Dear, Fr.
Kevin Riley, R-Fr.
Outlook: Justice Haynes' departure to the transfer portal represents a big loss in terms of talent, but Alabama still has plenty of depth in its backfield. Assuming Jam Miller elects to return for his senior season, he should serve as the Tide's leading back next fall. Meanwhile, Richard Young should see an increase in carries after showing flashes during his redshirt freshman season this year.
Daniel Hill could serve as a nice short-yardage back given his 6-foot-1, 241-pound frame. The Tide also brought in Rivals100 freshman Akylin Dear, who has the athleticism to serve as a change-of-pace option.
The Tideās backs have put their heads down and served in a supplementary role to Alabamaās Milroe-based rushing attack. There should be more opportunities for carries next season if Milroe makes way to the NFL.
TE-Y (2)
Departing: C.J. Dippre
Incoming: Kaleb Edwards (signee)
Danny Lewis Jr., R-Jr.
Ty Lockwood, R-So.
Kaleb Edwards, Fr.
TE-H (3)
Departing: Robbie Ouzts
Incoming: Marshall Pritchett, Fr. (signee)
Josh Cuevas, R-Jr.
Jay Lindsey, R-Fr.
Marshall Pritchett, Fr.
Outlook: Danny Lewis Jr.'s decision to withdraw his name from the transfer portal is big for Alabama's future depth at the tight end position. The rising redshirt junior is currently in line to compete for a starting job following the pending departures of C.J. Dippre and Robbie Ouzts.
The Tide also returns former Washington transfer Josh Cuevas. However, he is best utilized in the H-back role. Alabama is bringing in a pair of talented freshmen in Kaleb Edwards and Marshall Pritchett, but thereās no guarantee those two will be ready for SEC play right off the bat. Don't be surprised if Alabama continues to shop for another tight end in the portal, particularly a veteran with solid blocking abilities.
LT (3)
Departing: None
Incoming: Jackson Lloyd (signee), Micah DeBose (signee)
Kadyn Proctor, Jr.
Jackson Lloyd, Fr.
Micah Dubose, Fr.
LG (3)
Departing: Tyler Booker (draft)
Incoming: Michael Carroll, Fr. (signee)
Michael Carroll, Fr.
Olaus Alinen, R-So.
William Sanders, R-Fr.
C (3)
Departing: None
Incoming: None
Parker Brailsford, R-Jr.
Geno VanDeMark, R-Sr.
Joseph Ionata, R-Fr
RG (3)
Departing: None
Incoming: None
Jaeden Roberts, Sr.
Roq Montgomery, R-So.
Casey Poe, R-Fr.
RT (3)
Departing: Miles McVay (transfer)
Incoming: Mal Waldrep (signee)
Elijah Pritchett, R-Jr
Wilkin Formby, R-So.
Mal Waldrep, Fr.
Outlook: Tyler Booker will be playing on Sundays next year, as heās projected to be selected in either the late first round or early second round of the NFL Draft. Thereās also no guarantee that Alabama holds on to both Elijah Pritchett and Wilkin Formby, as theyāll each want significant playing time. Either way, the Tide should look for some more experienced depth at the tackle position.
Five-star freshman Michael Carroll has too much talent to keep off the field. The 6-foot-6, 315-pound lineman also has the bulk to move inside to guard where he can take Bookerās spot between Kadyn Proctor and Parker Brailsford.
Geno VanDeMark is listed as a backup center here, but heās also the next guy up at both guard spots. Itās also possible that he fills Bookerās starting left guard role and Carroll competes for the right tackle spot.
WR X (3)
Departing: Kendrick Law (transfer)
Incoming: None
Ryan Williams, So.
Jalen Hale, R-So.
Jarin Hamilton, R-So.
WR Z (3)
Departing: Caleb Odom (transfer), Emmanuel Henderson (transfer)
Incoming: Derek Meadows (signee)
Germie Bernard, Sr.
Derek Meadows, Fr.
Amari Jefferson, R-Fr.
WR H (4)
Departing: Kobe Prentice (transfer)
Incoming: Lotzeir Brooks (signee)
Cole Adams, R-So.
Rico Scott, R-Fr.
Aeryn Hampton, R-Fr.
Lotzeir Brooks, Fr.
Outlook: Alabama has now seen four receivers make way for the transfer portal and will be down to just four healthy players ā Ryan Williams, Germie Bernard, Rico Scott and Amari Jefferson ā at the position for the ReliaQuest Bowl at the end of the month. While the immediate depth is concerning, the Tide appears to be on the verge of rebuilding its receiving corps through the transfer portal.
Alabama is the favorite to land Miami transfer Isaiah Horton (6-foot-4, 205 pounds), who is coming off a breakout season in which he recorded 56 receptions for 616 yards and five touchdowns. The Tide also appears to be in good shape with N.C. State transfer Kevin Conception, who recently visited campus. The 5-foot-11, 187-pound slot receiver tallied 53 catches for 460 yards and six touchdowns this past season.
Assuming Alabama can land both players, Horton figures to share the X role with Ryan Williams, while Conception will take over Alabamaās slot duties at the H position. Meanwhile, Germie Bernard will continue to hold his starting job as the Z receiver.
Jaylen Mbakwe could also factor into Alabama's receiving depth, as there has been some talk over the five-star cornerback playing on both sides of the ball moving forward.
Incoming: Kevonte Henry, Jr. (signee)
Kelby Collins, Jr.
Jordan Renaud, R-So.
Kevonte Henry, Jr.
Keon Keeley, R-So.
Jeremiah Beamon, R-So.
Outlook: While Latham and Overton are listed as departures, both have the ability to return next season. The pair of veterans would retain their spots in the rotation if they elect to return, but Alabama will now be better covered in the event they decide to leave for the next level.
The Tide might have landed a hidden gem in Florida transfer Kelby Collins. The Gardendale native earned Freshman All-SEC honors in 2023, recording 23 tackles, including 1.5 sacks, to go with four quarterback hurries, a pass deflection and a forced fumble. However, he struggled with a position change to a three-tech role at defensive tackle this season, leading to limited playing time. His situation is similar to Overtonās last offseason, where a switch back to his preferred position at Alabama could lead to much better production.
Kevonte Henry joins Alabama as the No. 2 rated junior college player in this yearās class and should provide depth at the position, especially if the Tide loses Overton and Latham. Jordan Renaud is also a name to watch, while Keon Keeley and Jeremiah Beamon will look to break into the mix after another year of development.
Incoming: None
Tim Keenan III, R-Sr.
Edric Hill, R-So
Isaia Faga, R-Fr.
Incoming: London Simmons
James Smith, Jr.
Steve Mboumoua, So.
London Simmons, Fr.
Outlook: Damon Payne's decision to enter the transfer portal heightens the importance of adding reinforcements to the defensive front. Alabama missed on a few defensive line targets in this yearās class. Kalen DeBoer will hope to have more luck when it comes to adding defensive linemen out of the portal.
James Smith displayed his ability to apply pressure up the middle in Alabamaās last two games. However, the Tide will need more consistency from the rising junior if heās going to step into a starting spot next fall. The addition of Steve Mboumoua from Southwest Mississippi Community College will help replenish some of Alabamaās depth. Tim Keenan III is now one of the Tide's most important players, as he is far and away the best option for the nose tackle position.
Incoming: Justin Hill (signee)
Qua Russaw, R-So.
Yhonzae Pierre, R-So.
Justin Hill, Fr.
Noah Carter, R-Fr.
Jayshawn Ross, R-Fr.
Outlook: Qua Russaw has put his athleticism on display several times while breaking into Alabamaās starting defense this year. However, the star edge rusher has just one sack and 2.5 tackles for a loss over two games.
Alabama will expect those numbers to increase in Russawās second season on the field next year. However, the Tide could also be in the market to find another edge rusher who can help boost its pass-rushing production.
Former five-star recruit Yhonzae Pierre is poised for a breakout campaign, while four-star outside linebacker Justin Hill is one of Alabamaās most important signees in the current cycle.
Incoming: Darnell Johnson (signee)
Deontae Lawson, R-Sr.
Jeremiah Alexander R-Jr.
Cayden Jones, So.
Darnell Johnson, Fr.
Incoming: Luke Metz (signee)
Justin Okoronkwo, So.
Sterling Dixon, R-Fr.
Luke Metz, Fr.
Abdul Sanders, Fr.
Outlook: Deontae Lawson wasnāt removed as an early draft departure as he hasnāt been projected to be selected in the first three rounds. The rising redshirt senior suffered a season-ending leg injury against Oklahoma last month. That could factor into his decision to leave for the NFL or return for a final year.
While a potential Lawson return would serve as a major boost to Alabamaās defense, the Tide will be in the market for inside linebackers regardless of his decision. Along with Lawsonās potential departure, Alabama is losing Jihaad Campbell and Justin Jefferson. Together, that trio has combined for 115 of the Tideās 417 stops this season.
Incoming: Dijon Lee
Domani Jackson, Sr.
Dijon Lee, Fr.
Incoming: Chuck McDonald
Zabien Brown, So.
Jaylen Mbakwe, So.
Chuck McDonald, Fr.
Outlook: After a back-and-forth saga, Jaylen Mbakwe will be staying with Alabama. Thatās a big boost to the Tideās depth at the cornerback position. The sophomore isnāt currently projected to land a starting spot with Domani Jackson and Zabien Brown both likely to return. However, Mbakwe gives Alabama some much-needed experienced depth while allowing the Tide to be more flexible in the secondary.
Alabama also returns DaShawn Jones, who I currently have taking over the starting Husky role in replacement of DeVonta Smith. In addition, the Tide signed two Rivals100 cornerbacks in Dijon Lee Jr. and Chuck McDonald III. Alabama might still be in the market to add depth at cornerback, but that need is less severe following Mbakweās U-turn back to Tuscaloosa.
Incoming: Chuck McDonald
DaShawn Jones, R-Sr.
Red Morgan, So.
Dre Kirkpatrick Jr., So.
Incoming: None
Bray Hubbard, Jr.
King Mack, Jr.
Zavier Mincey, So.
Incoming: Ivan Taylor
Keon Sabb, Sr.
Kameron Howard, Jr.
Ivan Taylor, Fr.
Outlook: Earlier this year, Keon Sabb appeared set to enter the draft. A season-ending foot injury likely changed those plans, as the Michigan transfer figures to return for a final season.
Sabbās injury allowed for Bray Hubbardās ascension to the starting lineup. The rising junior has been one of the Tideās best defenders this season, leading the team with three interceptions while recording 48 tackles, a pair of pass breakups and a forced fumble. With DeVonta Smith's departure to the transfer portal, Alabama could elect to drop Hubbard down to the box in the Husky position.
The Tide could also move DaShawn Jones into the Husky role or use one of its younger safeties such as Red Morgan, Zavier Mincey or King Mack in the slot. Meanwhile, four-star signee Ivan Taylor adds even more depth to the unit.
Incoming: Blake Doud (Colorado Mines, walk-on), Alex Asparuhov (signee)
Blake Doud, R-Sr.
Alex Asparuhov, Fr.
Outlook: Alabama now has two capable options to replace James Burnip in the punter role.
Colorado Mines transfer Doud earned Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Special Teams Player of the Year honors this season, leading the NCAA Division II with 46.6 yards per punt. He had 13 punts of 50 or more yards this season and pinned his opponents inside the 20 on 19 occasions. He also had a career-long 80-yard punt that was downed at the 1 against West Texas A&M.
Freshman signee Alex Asparuhov is also talented and joins Alabama as the third rated punter in this yearās class, according to Kohlās Kicking.
Incoming: Peter Notaro (freshman walk-on)
Conor Talty, R-So.
Peter Notaro, Fr.
Outlook: Conor Talty figures to take over Alabamaās placekicking duties following Graham Nicholsonās departure. Talty has yet to attempt a field goal but is 3 of 3 on extra point attempts this season. His main role has been handling kickoffs where he is averaging 63.39 yards and has 39 touchbacks on 72 kicks.
Freshman walk-on Peter Notraro joins Alabama as the No. 4 rated kicker in this yearās class, according to Kohlās Kicking.
Incoming: David Bird (California, walk-on)
David Bird, Jr.
Jay Williams, R-Fr.
Outlook: Alabama appears to have found its replacement for departing long snapper Kneeland Hibbett, adding California transfer David Bird as a preferred walk-on. Bird did not record an errant snap during his two seasons with the Golden Bears. His top competition for the long snapper role at Alabama is fellow walk-on Jay Williams.
Since the beginning of the season, Alabama has seen nine players declare their intent to transfer from the program. Earlier this week, the Tide received a commitment from Colorado School of Mines punter Blake Doud. The Division II transfer figures to be the first of many players Alabama adds over the offseason.
As more Alabama players make way for the portal, we should get a better feel for the Tideās needs in the transfer market. To help keep track of what next yearās roster might look like, Tide Illustrated will be updating a projected depth chart throughout the offseason.
Itās way too early to know where things stand in terms of position battles, so think of this depth chart as a rough guide to where Alabama stands at every position. The depth chart will be updated constantly with players added and removed accordingly.
Before we get started, here are a few notes on how this was put together.
While we didnāt project any unannounced transfers, players who have been tabbed as possible Day 1 or Day 2 selections in next yearās NFL draft were removed. If those players announce their return to Alabama, they will be added back to the depth chart. Additional early draft entries will be subtracted.
Players who participated in Senior Day were also removed. As is the case with projected early draft entries, Senior Day participants will be re-added should they announce their intent to return.
*** Latest update 12/17/2024
Projected early draft entries
(Players projected to be selected in first three rounds)
Jihaad Campbell, LB
Jalen Milroe, QB
Tyler Booker, OL
LT Overton, EDGE
Senior Day participants
James Burnip, P
C.J. Dippre, TE
Kneeland Hibbett, SN
Justin Jefferson, LB
Jah-Marien Latham, EDGE
Malachi Moore, S
Graham Nicholson, K
Robbie Ouzts, TE
Que Robinson, EDGE
Tim Smith, DL
Announced transfer departures
Jeheim Oatis, DT (Colorado)
Keanu Koht, EDGE (Vanderbilt)
Jahlil Hurley, CB (Kansas)
Kobe Prentice, WR (Baylor)
Caleb Odom, WR
Miles McVay, OL
Kendrick Law OL
Hunter Osborne, DL
Dylan Lonergan, QB (Boston College)
Justice Haynes, RB
DeVonta Smith, DB
Emmanuel Henderson, WR
Withdrawn transfer departures
Danny Lewis Jr., TE
Jaylen Mbakwe, DB
Announced transfer arrivals
Blake Doud, P (Colorado Mines, walk-on)
David Bird, LS (California, walk-on)
Kelby Collins, EDGE (Florida)
Position (scholarship count)
QB (4)
Departing: Jalen Milroe (draft), Dylan Lonergan (transfer)
Incoming: Keelon Russell (signee)
Ty Simpson, R-Jr.
Austin Mack, R-So.
Keelon Russell, Fr.
Outlook: Assuming that Jalen Milroe takes advantage of an upcoming weak quarterback class, Alabama will have a new starter behind center. Ty Simpson figures to be that guy, but heāll be pushed hard by Austin Mack.
With Dylan Lonergan's decision to enter the portal, Mack should slot into the backup role. That will see the former Washington transfer receive more reps during practice and should enhance his development moving forward.
Keelon Russell has the highest ceiling of anyone in this room, but the 6-foot-3, 175-pound freshman could stand to put on some weight and learn the offense before being thrown in the fire.
If Alabama drops down to three quarterbacks, it might elect to bring in a veteran for depth. However, that player wouldnāt be viewed as a contender for the starting role.
RB (5)
Departing: Justice Haynes (transfer)
Incoming: Akylin Dear (signee)
Jam Miller, Sr.
Richard Young, R-So.
Daniel Hill, R-Fr.
Akylin Dear, Fr.
Kevin Riley, R-Fr.
Outlook: Justice Haynes' departure to the transfer portal represents a big loss in terms of talent, but Alabama still has plenty of depth in its backfield. Assuming Jam Miller elects to return for his senior season, he should serve as the Tide's leading back next fall. Meanwhile, Richard Young should see an increase in carries after showing flashes during his redshirt freshman season this year.
Daniel Hill could serve as a nice short-yardage back given his 6-foot-1, 241-pound frame. The Tide also brought in Rivals100 freshman Akylin Dear, who has the athleticism to serve as a change-of-pace option.
The Tideās backs have put their heads down and served in a supplementary role to Alabamaās Milroe-based rushing attack. There should be more opportunities for carries next season if Milroe makes way to the NFL.
TE-Y (2)
Departing: C.J. Dippre
Incoming: Kaleb Edwards (signee)
Danny Lewis Jr., R-Jr.
Ty Lockwood, R-So.
Kaleb Edwards, Fr.
TE-H (3)
Departing: Robbie Ouzts
Incoming: Marshall Pritchett, Fr. (signee)
Josh Cuevas, R-Jr.
Jay Lindsey, R-Fr.
Marshall Pritchett, Fr.
Outlook: Danny Lewis Jr.'s decision to withdraw his name from the transfer portal is big for Alabama's future depth at the tight end position. The rising redshirt junior is currently in line to compete for a starting job following the pending departures of C.J. Dippre and Robbie Ouzts.
The Tide also returns former Washington transfer Josh Cuevas. However, he is best utilized in the H-back role. Alabama is bringing in a pair of talented freshmen in Kaleb Edwards and Marshall Pritchett, but thereās no guarantee those two will be ready for SEC play right off the bat. Don't be surprised if Alabama continues to shop for another tight end in the portal, particularly a veteran with solid blocking abilities.
LT (3)
Departing: None
Incoming: Jackson Lloyd (signee), Micah DeBose (signee)
Kadyn Proctor, Jr.
Jackson Lloyd, Fr.
Micah Dubose, Fr.
LG (3)
Departing: Tyler Booker (draft)
Incoming: Michael Carroll, Fr. (signee)
Michael Carroll, Fr.
Olaus Alinen, R-So.
William Sanders, R-Fr.
C (3)
Departing: None
Incoming: None
Parker Brailsford, R-Jr.
Geno VanDeMark, R-Sr.
Joseph Ionata, R-Fr
RG (3)
Departing: None
Incoming: None
Jaeden Roberts, Sr.
Roq Montgomery, R-So.
Casey Poe, R-Fr.
RT (3)
Departing: Miles McVay (transfer)
Incoming: Mal Waldrep (signee)
Elijah Pritchett, R-Jr
Wilkin Formby, R-So.
Mal Waldrep, Fr.
Outlook: Tyler Booker will be playing on Sundays next year, as heās projected to be selected in either the late first round or early second round of the NFL Draft. Thereās also no guarantee that Alabama holds on to both Elijah Pritchett and Wilkin Formby, as theyāll each want significant playing time. Either way, the Tide should look for some more experienced depth at the tackle position.
Five-star freshman Michael Carroll has too much talent to keep off the field. The 6-foot-6, 315-pound lineman also has the bulk to move inside to guard where he can take Bookerās spot between Kadyn Proctor and Parker Brailsford.
Geno VanDeMark is listed as a backup center here, but heās also the next guy up at both guard spots. Itās also possible that he fills Bookerās starting left guard role and Carroll competes for the right tackle spot.
WR X (3)
Departing: Kendrick Law (transfer)
Incoming: None
Ryan Williams, So.
Jalen Hale, R-So.
Jarin Hamilton, R-So.
WR Z (3)
Departing: Caleb Odom (transfer), Emmanuel Henderson (transfer)
Incoming: Derek Meadows (signee)
Germie Bernard, Sr.
Derek Meadows, Fr.
Amari Jefferson, R-Fr.
WR H (4)
Departing: Kobe Prentice (transfer)
Incoming: Lotzeir Brooks (signee)
Cole Adams, R-So.
Rico Scott, R-Fr.
Aeryn Hampton, R-Fr.
Lotzeir Brooks, Fr.
Outlook: Alabama has now seen four receivers make way for the transfer portal and will be down to just four healthy players ā Ryan Williams, Germie Bernard, Rico Scott and Amari Jefferson ā at the position for the ReliaQuest Bowl at the end of the month. While the immediate depth is concerning, the Tide appears to be on the verge of rebuilding its receiving corps through the transfer portal.
Alabama is the favorite to land Miami transfer Isaiah Horton (6-foot-4, 205 pounds), who is coming off a breakout season in which he recorded 56 receptions for 616 yards and five touchdowns. The Tide also appears to be in good shape with N.C. State transfer Kevin Conception, who recently visited campus. The 5-foot-11, 187-pound slot receiver tallied 53 catches for 460 yards and six touchdowns this past season.
Assuming Alabama can land both players, Horton figures to share the X role with Ryan Williams, while Conception will take over Alabamaās slot duties at the H position. Meanwhile, Germie Bernard will continue to hold his starting job as the Z receiver.
Jaylen Mbakwe could also factor into Alabama's receiving depth, as there has been some talk over the five-star cornerback playing on both sides of the ball moving forward.
Bandit (5)
Departing: Jah-Marien Latham, LT OvertonIncoming: Kevonte Henry, Jr. (signee)
Kelby Collins, Jr.
Jordan Renaud, R-So.
Kevonte Henry, Jr.
Keon Keeley, R-So.
Jeremiah Beamon, R-So.
Outlook: While Latham and Overton are listed as departures, both have the ability to return next season. The pair of veterans would retain their spots in the rotation if they elect to return, but Alabama will now be better covered in the event they decide to leave for the next level.
The Tide might have landed a hidden gem in Florida transfer Kelby Collins. The Gardendale native earned Freshman All-SEC honors in 2023, recording 23 tackles, including 1.5 sacks, to go with four quarterback hurries, a pass deflection and a forced fumble. However, he struggled with a position change to a three-tech role at defensive tackle this season, leading to limited playing time. His situation is similar to Overtonās last offseason, where a switch back to his preferred position at Alabama could lead to much better production.
Kevonte Henry joins Alabama as the No. 2 rated junior college player in this yearās class and should provide depth at the position, especially if the Tide loses Overton and Latham. Jordan Renaud is also a name to watch, while Keon Keeley and Jeremiah Beamon will look to break into the mix after another year of development.
NT (3)
Departing: Hunter Osborne, Damon Payne (transfer)Incoming: None
Tim Keenan III, R-Sr.
Edric Hill, R-So
Isaia Faga, R-Fr.
DT (3)
Departing: Jeheim Oatis, Tim SmithIncoming: London Simmons
James Smith, Jr.
Steve Mboumoua, So.
London Simmons, Fr.
Outlook: Damon Payne's decision to enter the transfer portal heightens the importance of adding reinforcements to the defensive front. Alabama missed on a few defensive line targets in this yearās class. Kalen DeBoer will hope to have more luck when it comes to adding defensive linemen out of the portal.
James Smith displayed his ability to apply pressure up the middle in Alabamaās last two games. However, the Tide will need more consistency from the rising junior if heās going to step into a starting spot next fall. The addition of Steve Mboumoua from Southwest Mississippi Community College will help replenish some of Alabamaās depth. Tim Keenan III is now one of the Tide's most important players, as he is far and away the best option for the nose tackle position.
WOLF (5)
Departing: Que Robinson, Keanu KohtIncoming: Justin Hill (signee)
Qua Russaw, R-So.
Yhonzae Pierre, R-So.
Justin Hill, Fr.
Noah Carter, R-Fr.
Jayshawn Ross, R-Fr.
Outlook: Qua Russaw has put his athleticism on display several times while breaking into Alabamaās starting defense this year. However, the star edge rusher has just one sack and 2.5 tackles for a loss over two games.
Alabama will expect those numbers to increase in Russawās second season on the field next year. However, the Tide could also be in the market to find another edge rusher who can help boost its pass-rushing production.
Former five-star recruit Yhonzae Pierre is poised for a breakout campaign, while four-star outside linebacker Justin Hill is one of Alabamaās most important signees in the current cycle.
STING (4)
Departing: NoneIncoming: Darnell Johnson (signee)
Deontae Lawson, R-Sr.
Jeremiah Alexander R-Jr.
Cayden Jones, So.
Darnell Johnson, Fr.
Mike (4)
Departing: Jihaad Campbell, Justin JeffersonIncoming: Luke Metz (signee)
Justin Okoronkwo, So.
Sterling Dixon, R-Fr.
Luke Metz, Fr.
Abdul Sanders, Fr.
Outlook: Deontae Lawson wasnāt removed as an early draft departure as he hasnāt been projected to be selected in the first three rounds. The rising redshirt senior suffered a season-ending leg injury against Oklahoma last month. That could factor into his decision to leave for the NFL or return for a final year.
While a potential Lawson return would serve as a major boost to Alabamaās defense, the Tide will be in the market for inside linebackers regardless of his decision. Along with Lawsonās potential departure, Alabama is losing Jihaad Campbell and Justin Jefferson. Together, that trio has combined for 115 of the Tideās 417 stops this season.
CB (2)
Departing: Jahlil Hurley (transfer)Incoming: Dijon Lee
Domani Jackson, Sr.
Dijon Lee, Fr.
CB (3)
Departing: NoneIncoming: Chuck McDonald
Zabien Brown, So.
Jaylen Mbakwe, So.
Chuck McDonald, Fr.
Outlook: After a back-and-forth saga, Jaylen Mbakwe will be staying with Alabama. Thatās a big boost to the Tideās depth at the cornerback position. The sophomore isnāt currently projected to land a starting spot with Domani Jackson and Zabien Brown both likely to return. However, Mbakwe gives Alabama some much-needed experienced depth while allowing the Tide to be more flexible in the secondary.
Alabama also returns DaShawn Jones, who I currently have taking over the starting Husky role in replacement of DeVonta Smith. In addition, the Tide signed two Rivals100 cornerbacks in Dijon Lee Jr. and Chuck McDonald III. Alabama might still be in the market to add depth at cornerback, but that need is less severe following Mbakweās U-turn back to Tuscaloosa.
Husky (3)
Departing: DeVonta Smith (transfer)Incoming: Chuck McDonald
DaShawn Jones, R-Sr.
Red Morgan, So.
Dre Kirkpatrick Jr., So.
Rover (3)
Departing: Malachi MooreIncoming: None
Bray Hubbard, Jr.
King Mack, Jr.
Zavier Mincey, So.
FS (3)
Departing: Malachi MooreIncoming: Ivan Taylor
Keon Sabb, Sr.
Kameron Howard, Jr.
Ivan Taylor, Fr.
Outlook: Earlier this year, Keon Sabb appeared set to enter the draft. A season-ending foot injury likely changed those plans, as the Michigan transfer figures to return for a final season.
Sabbās injury allowed for Bray Hubbardās ascension to the starting lineup. The rising junior has been one of the Tideās best defenders this season, leading the team with three interceptions while recording 48 tackles, a pair of pass breakups and a forced fumble. With DeVonta Smith's departure to the transfer portal, Alabama could elect to drop Hubbard down to the box in the Husky position.
The Tide could also move DaShawn Jones into the Husky role or use one of its younger safeties such as Red Morgan, Zavier Mincey or King Mack in the slot. Meanwhile, four-star signee Ivan Taylor adds even more depth to the unit.
P (1)
Departing: James BurnipIncoming: Blake Doud (Colorado Mines, walk-on), Alex Asparuhov (signee)
Blake Doud, R-Sr.
Alex Asparuhov, Fr.
Outlook: Alabama now has two capable options to replace James Burnip in the punter role.
Colorado Mines transfer Doud earned Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Special Teams Player of the Year honors this season, leading the NCAA Division II with 46.6 yards per punt. He had 13 punts of 50 or more yards this season and pinned his opponents inside the 20 on 19 occasions. He also had a career-long 80-yard punt that was downed at the 1 against West Texas A&M.
Freshman signee Alex Asparuhov is also talented and joins Alabama as the third rated punter in this yearās class, according to Kohlās Kicking.
K (1)
Departing: Graham NicholsonIncoming: Peter Notaro (freshman walk-on)
Conor Talty, R-So.
Peter Notaro, Fr.
Outlook: Conor Talty figures to take over Alabamaās placekicking duties following Graham Nicholsonās departure. Talty has yet to attempt a field goal but is 3 of 3 on extra point attempts this season. His main role has been handling kickoffs where he is averaging 63.39 yards and has 39 touchbacks on 72 kicks.
Freshman walk-on Peter Notraro joins Alabama as the No. 4 rated kicker in this yearās class, according to Kohlās Kicking.
LS (0)
Departing: Kneeland HibbettIncoming: David Bird (California, walk-on)
David Bird, Jr.
Jay Williams, R-Fr.
Outlook: Alabama appears to have found its replacement for departing long snapper Kneeland Hibbett, adding California transfer David Bird as a preferred walk-on. Bird did not record an errant snap during his two seasons with the Golden Bears. His top competition for the long snapper role at Alabama is fellow walk-on Jay Williams.
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