Jahmyr Gibbs is one of several names we will hear a lot this season in college football.
As a transfer from Georgia Tech, the talented running back stands out for the University of Alabama.
RELATED: Nick Saban on his new contract extension: ‘This is our home’
His explosiveness and versatility made it simple for Coach Nick Saban to pull him from the NCAA transfer portal. The Crimson Tide needed instant offense at running back, and Gibbs has it in spades. He can run with power between the tackles, explode in space with acceleration, be an asset in the passing game, and return kickoffs. Gibbs wants to build off his 1,800 all-purpose yards and seven touchdowns from 2021 with the Yellow Jackets, but he is excited to help the Tide capture a national championship.
He has been a highlight of spring practice and preseason camp. On Tuesday, Jaylen Moody (linebacker) and Kendall Randolph (offensive lineman) spoke to reporters. Both are thrilled to have Gibbs in Tuscaloosa and expect him to add great things to the roster.
“Gibbs is a special talent,” Moody said. “He is one of a kind, fast, slippery, and he’s special. He is a good kid too.”
He enters his fifth season with the Tide, but Moody says Gibbs has made him better in practice. Randolph, a sixth-year senior, arrived in Alabama’s star-studded 2017 class as a four-star. He has blocked for many runners — including Damien Harris, Najee Harris, Josh Jacobs, Bo Scarbrough, and Brian Robinson — but he sees something different about the former ACC weapon.
“Jahmyr Gibbs is electric,” Randolph said. “He plays fast, quick feet, and makes great cuts. Blocking for him is a huge honor because he is a great athlete. We are going to do everything we need to for him to be successful.”
RELATED: Kendall Randolph has no issue being the grandpa of the team
Gibbs is a preseason candidate for some individual honors, including second-team All-SEC from the conference coaches.
The 5-foot-10, 200-pounder is ready to roll. Next week is game time for Gibbs and the Crimson Tide.
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*
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.
