Eli Ricks has adjusted quickly to Alabama’s defensive system as a transfer cornerback.
He excited Crimson Tide fans with his decision to leave Louisiana State University during the offseason (NCAA transfer portal) and commit to the Tide. Ricks brings experience at a position of need for Alabama, especially with losing Josh Jobe and Jalyn Armour-Davis to the National Football League. The 6-foot-2, 190-pounder has played 16 games at a Southeastern Conference program, including ten as a freshman. Ricks was a Freshman All-SEC and Freshman All-American selection in 2020, totaling 20 tackles, five pass breakups, and four interceptions.
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He returned two picks for touchdowns.
A shoulder injury limited him to six games last year. Ricks posted 11 tackles, a breakup, and an interception. He brings size, footwork, speed, physicality, tackling skills, coverage skills, and ball skills to Alabama’s secondary. Nick Saban said he’s been “impressed” with the three transfers, but he’s excited about how Ricks has looked through three spring practices.
“He is picking things up and doing a good job out there,” Saban said Wednesday of Ricks.
Ricks knows the game, and he will make Kool-Aid McKinstry, Khyree Jackson, Terrion Arnold, Tre’Quon Fegans, and others better at cornerback. He lost some weight from the injury, but Ricks is gaining it back.
He projects as a starter at one of two outside corner positions for the Tide.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
